Building Faith!

"But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life" (Jude 1:20,21 NIV). 

In this passage of scripture, we find a reminder that we are not to think too much about what "scoffers and unbelievers say or do" since they are operating without benefit of the Holy Spirit's guidance in their lives.  Indeed, we are told that they are only concerned with their fleshly desires and allow those desires to dictate their actions and influence others to do likewise. 

But we are reminded that we can "build up our faith" and pray in the Holy Spirit to keep ourselves in right standing with God (receiving all His benefits) as we wait for the return of Jesus Christ for our eternal resting place.  Upon reading all of Jude, we understand that the persecution and downright ridicule of believers is not new and we are warned that the things  occurring right now, were foretold long ago.  It's just human nature.  Whenever human beings think that appeasing flesh is more important than anything else, we have upheavals in spiritual matters (faith in God, etc.) and an open season on believers who dare to adhere to The Word of God and do so in public forums.

We know that God's timing is not ours and we can rest assured that we will receive that eternal resting place promised to all believers and just as we will receive the promise made to us; so will others who choose not to believe,  receive what they were promised. 

Lord, have mercy on those who walk in unbelief and provide for them an opportunity to see You for who You are and what You mean in their lives.  Stop the mouths of those who are influenced by the enemy and who would cause many to turn away from You and Your goodness.  Provide those who do believe with wisdom and direction in promoting the Gospel so that we can stand before You, justified in being obedient, knowing we have done all we can do to bring others into a right relationship with You.  Fill all with Your Spirit that we might have peace in the land while we are yet present in this realm until Jesus reappears. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen!