Men of Faith

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."

I think this is a powerful quote in its own right, but even more powerful when applied to our faith. Imagine it read this way, "The ultimate measure of your faith is not where it stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where it stands in times of challenge and controversy."

Is your faith strong enough to withstand difficult times? When is your faith the strongest and when do you find your faith waning the most?

I Can Do All Things

Paul emphasized that the power of Jesus lives inside of each believer.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" is one of the most beloved declarations of the faith. We see it on posters and wall art, on bracelets and greeting cards, and even painted on the faces of sports personalities. At first glance, Paul’s words seem to bolster our American idea of personal empowerment—that we can achieve whatever we set our minds to.

But Paul’s words weren’t those of self-empowerment, turning him into a superman. Rather, Christ’s Spirit in Paul empowered him to endure the difficulties and challenges of his calling. He was strengthened to achieve exactly what God had ordained him to achieve. And most importantly, he was able to go through it all with the joy of contentment and the assurance that God would finish what He started.

What…

One thing I’ve learned to treasure is the peace that comes from knowing Jesus. It guards my mind, stills my heart, quells the flames of worry and doubt, and strengthens me in my weakest moments. As the saying goes, no Jesus, no peace. Know Jesus, know peace.