Choose to Believe
“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” —A. W. Tozer
Life really is all about what you believe.
We are in a holiday (Holy Days) season rooted in the Christian faith while simultaneously hijacked by culture. As you celebrate Christmas, are you living out what you believe? If so, what does that look like? Peter reminds us that “If someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.” 1 Peter 3:15
Since I first made my profession of faith at age twelve, I have clung to words of the Apostles’ Creed, dating from AD 700. Like a small acorn that contains all the elements of a large oak tree, this short creed condenses into just a few words a belief system contained in both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible.
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic* Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
- Apostles’ Creed. AD 700 *meaning the universal church
The creed was never meant to be a substitute for personal faith, for a trusting relationship with God. We profess our faith not in the words but in the reality to which they point. Reciting the creed reminds us of the truths of our salvation and gives us an opportunity to personally affirm them.
What do you believe?
It’s important to know. And to, like Peter, “always be ready to explain it.”
Some people find this conversation uncomfortable, perhaps because they have never made a clear confession of faith or received assurance of pardon. Or they believe in God but struggle with words to describe such.
Here is a simple prayer that can be offered — even now at Christmastide — in order to make your faith and beliefs sure—declaring Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.
“Dear Jesus, thank You for loving me so much that You came to live among us. Please forgive my sins—all those times I’ve chosen my way and not Yours. Thank you for Your death and Resurrection, enabling me to live freely here and eternally with You in heaven. I invite You to make Your home in my heart and help me grow so I may serve and glorify You as Lord of my life forever. Amen.”
If you prayed that prayer or one similar at any time in your life, you are part of God’s forever family. You belong to Him always—now and into eternity.
As I wish you, my precious readers, a most Merry Christmas, may I just add that if this holy season finds you still searching to put your own beliefs into words and thoughts, be assured God is right beside you on this seeking journey of faith. My prayer is He will make His will and His way clear to you. Never forget how much He loves you and calls you His child.
This is what I believe.
Lord, sometimes I’m actually confused about what I do believe. Those who call themselves Christians occasionally say and do things I would never embrace. Yet, You know I’m searching for deeper spiritual meaning in my life. Thank You for sending Your Son to help show me the way. Amen.
May the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the friendship of the Holy Spirit bring you comfort and strength, Lucinda
“Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity and Strength”
©2021 Lucinda Secrest McDowell www.LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com
Lucinda Secrest McDowell is a storyteller and seasoned mentor who engages both heart and mind while “Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength.” She has authored 15 books including “Soul Strong – 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life” and “Life-Giving Choices – 60 Days to What Matters Most.” She writes from “Sunnyside” cottage in New England and shares encouraging words at LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com
Thank you for following my weekly “One Daily Choice” Blogs all Fall - the final one is next week (I added it later.) Click HERE to read each one again. These 13 weeks of blogs have been adapted from Lucinda’s award-winning book “Life-Giving Choices” . Thanks for reading. Click HERE to add your email to get blogs weekly in your in box.
Beautiful as always.
Lucinda, tears are in my eyes. Thank you for this loving message. Merry Christmas to you and Mike, and the whole family.
This was a treasure, Lucinda. Thank you,