As Christians, we place great emphasis on faith. This is of a necessity, for we are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). Indeed, we are called to a life of active faith (2 Corinthians 5:7). Then we are given a reminder that “whatsoever is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). The Christian life is lived by faith, since Jesus Christ is Faith (Galatians 2:20). We see then that the Christian’s reality is shaped by his faith.

In the light of modern philosophical thinking, many people believe it is difficult to walk by faith and not by sight. Imagine that – Christians have faith in their lack of faith! The Apostle Paul reminds us that our understanding of Creation itself is a matter of faith. Would anyone doubt their own existence? We see the very faith that confirms our existence to be the requisite for living a God-honoring life in Christ.

If God spoke the Creation into existence (and He did), then we can know that His Word is sure. The Word that God speaks becomes the Truth, regardless of circumstance or personal interpretation. Our faith then rests on the Word of God. This is the basis of our faith; not a feeling, or any other emotional uncertainty.

However, there is a contradiction that arises when we choose to gauge our lives by an incorrect perspective. Viewing one’s life as a Christian may be done in one of three distinct ways:

1. Facts: If you were to judge your life simply by facts, then you would never progress. You would always live by those facts as a standard. If you have anger problems, then you will always have anger problems; because you will maintain the standard of being angry. If you have a crummy job due to lack of skills, then you will always have that job; because your standard prohibits you from developing new skills.
2. Opinions: If you were to judge your life simply by opinions, then you will never have certainty. Many opinions are based on facts, but this basis of fact does not make the opinion any more concrete. This is the principle behind seeking a “second opinion.” If your opinion of self is low because you failed a test, then your opinion is that you cannot pass that test. Then again, many opinions have no factual basis at all; they rest simply on a person’s feelings.
3. Reality: If you were to judge your life simply by reality, then you will view each circumstance as an opportunity to succeed. Of necessity then, Reality is not based on Facts or Opinions. Reality is a matter of Truth. However, this truth is not determined by the viewer (that would be an interpretation), but by the Author of Truth.

To put these perspectives in another perspective: the fact is that scientists have determined the molecular structure of human beings. Their opinion is that they could construct a living organism by the correct combination of elements. But the reality is that the breath of life is a gift from God.

The fact may be that you have been diagnosed with cancer or some other disease. The opinion is that this sickness will kill you and that you only have a few months to live. But the reality is that your death will only come by the appointment of a Sovereign God, Who alone has the Power of life.

“Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commandeth it not?”  (Lamentations 3:37)

Again: the fact may be that you are in a position of great distress. You’ve been injured in an accident. You’ve lost a job; bills are piling up; your wife has left you for someone younger. Your opinion may be that you are a failure. You believe you are helpless. You think you will never succeed. You feel that you were an unfit husband. You may even come to say that you deserve this downward turn of events. But the reality is that you are in a position for God to do a mighty work of grace. The reality is that God is your Healer, your Provider, your Strength and Portion forever. God is a Rewarder of them who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

Child of God, the reality is that God, as a loving Father, has made great promises to His children. The reality is that He has told us to trust in Him; and He has poured out upon us of His Spirit that we may have the power to perform.

Are you viewing your life through the eyes of faith, looking at God’s reality? Are you walking in Faith (Christ), realizing the power to overcome all trials and obstacles? Are you waiting in faith for God to meet a special need, trusting Him in spite of facts or opinions? Let the Holy Spirit comfort you as the Word of God shapes your reality. Know that He is God, and He is Truth.