Faith is not just a simple affirmation that you believe that Jesus is the Son of God. That statement can be nothing than an affirmation that you have looked at the overwhelming evidence and have arrived at an intellectual conclusion that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah. Do you know that this is precisely what the Devil and his legions of demons believe (cf. James 2:19; Luke 8:28-30)! Have you considered how God sees faith and how it is manifested? James said, “Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works” (James 2:18).
Faith was manifested on Friday night when young adults from all over south Florida assembled at Palm Beach Lakes for a devotional period in our auditorium, a fun time around the bonfire on our property and another devotional around the bonfire. How could anyone not see the manifestation of their faith by their activities on Friday evening?
Earlier on Friday evening there was further evidence of faith when the elders, deacons and preachers at Palm Beach Lakes assembled to plan the programs of works for 2010. Every member at PBL can be thankful they were part of the prayers which were offered. In groups of four or five, the leaders of PBL knelt and prayed that God would bless this church, our families, our nation and those in leadership roles in this church. In another session that evening, photos of nearly 100 family groups were projected with two sobering questions being asked—what are the needs of those in this photo, and what can I do to help them. It was sobering and set the tone for the actual planning which followed the next day.
Saturday there were further manifestations of faith as the elders/deacons/preachers continued to form plans for 2010. At the same time the Hispanic congregation which meets in our building was hosting a lectureship for our Spanish speaking brethren throughout south Florida. Lives were greatly impacted in both of these meetings.
Then on Sunday faith was seen again in our worship. Perhaps the greatest manifestation of our devotion to doing His will was seen in the announcement of withdrawal from those who have turned away from the Lord. With an elder almost in tears, the withdrawal announcement was made with a plea for each of us to continue helping those who are lost.
I am thankful to be a member at Palm Beach Lakes. I am thankful that faith is visible here!