Through Samaria

Where Bad Theology Comes From

People often believe things about God simply because they have heard them repeated enough times. Statements may sound spiritual or convincing, but that does not necessarily make them true. That is why it is so important for believers to know what God’s Word actually says. What we believe about God shapes the way we live. False teaching often sounds spiritual and may even contain elements of truth, but somewhere along the way, something has been distorted or added to what God has said. That is why believers must learn to recognize truth from error and remain grounded in sound doctrine.

The Ingredients of a Life of Faith

Many people have different ideas about what it takes to please God. Some believe God is pleased by good works, religious activity, effort, or sincerity. But Hebrews 11:6 makes it clear: “But without faith it is impossible to please him...” Faith is not simply optimism, emotion, or wishful thinking; it is confident trust in God and in what He has said. There are really only two ways to live: by sight or by faith. Most people live by what they can see, understand, and control, but biblical faith chooses to trust God even without having all the answers. Through Abraham’s life we see what real faith requires. Faith is not easy or comfortable, but it is the only way to live a life that truly pleases God.

Striving Together in Prayer

Prayer is not meant to be a shallow routine or casual habit. In Romans 15:30, Paul describes prayer as something we are to “strive” in together. That word speaks of effort, labor, and spiritual struggle. Real prayer is spiritual work. And not only are we called to pray, we are called to pray together. Prayer was never meant to be only an individual practice, but something God’s people engage in collectively. We are not simply individuals who pray, we are meant to be a church that prays.

What Are You Remembered For?

Every person will be remembered for something. Long after possessions and accomplishments fade, what remains is a person’s character, testimony, and the kind of life they lived. As we reflect during Memorial Day weekend, we are reminded that people are remembered not only for how they died, but for how they lived. The question is not whether we will be remembered, but what we will be remembered for.

What Faith Is and What Faith Does

Faith is a part of every person’s life. Every day, people place their trust in something or someone, whether in the physical world or in matters of eternity. The issue is not whether a person has faith, but where that faith is placed. The Bible makes it clear that faith is only as trustworthy as its object, and salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone.