"Stand Firm in the Faith"

Conclusion of FOCUS ON JESUS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR FAITH

Pray for more faith.  Jesus taught his disciples to ask Jehovah for holy spirit.  (Luke 11:9, 13)  As you do this, pray for more faith; it is an aspect of the fruitage of the spirit. Be specific in your request, asking God to help you overcome any trait that you may have found  that indicates a weakening of faith, such as an inability to forgive.

Associate with people of faith.  Jesus chose his friends carefully, especially those whom he welcomed into his inner circle.  His closest companions, the apostles, had proved their faith and loyalty by obeying his commands.  (Read John 15: 14, 15) So when choosing your friends, look for people who show their faith by their obedience to Jesus. And remember that one sign of a good friendship is open communication, even when this calls for giving or accepting counsel. -Proverbs 27:9.

Help others strengthen their faith.   By both word and deed, Jesus built up the faith of his disciples.  (Mark 11:20-24)  We should follow his example because helping others build up their faith also strengthens our own.  (Proverbs 11:25) In your preaching and teaching, highlight the proof that God exists, that he cares about us, and that the Bible is his inspired Word.  Help your brothers and sisters bolster their faith as well.  If any show signs of doubt, perhaps by starting to grumble against appointed brothers, do not quickly shun them. Instead, tactfully come to their aid, helping them to take steps to restore their faith.  (Jude 22, 23) If you are in school and the theory of evolution is discussed, boldly defend your faith in creation-you might be surprised   at the effect your words have on others.

With God's help through Jesus, Peter conquered his fears and doubt, becoming a pillar of faith among early Christians. In the same way, Jehovah helps  all of us to stand firm in the faith.  (Read 1 Peter 5:9, 10.) The effort we put into building our faith is well worth it, for the rewards are incomparable.

Next time: In What Ways Does Jehovah Love Us?

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