FAITH IS a dependence on the veracity of another. This trust is called faith, because it relies upon the truth of a promise. Faith, in the propriety of expression, is an assent on account of the veracity of the speaker. God has spoken unto us by his servants, and says, “Even so, faith, if it bath not works, is dead, being alone.” James ii, 17. Again, “Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Eph. ii, 9.
I notice in the word of God that faith and works belong together; as James has said, Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. All of the ancient worthies pleased God through faith; their works corresponded with their faith. I find by an examination of the word of God that His people have accomplished all that has been done through faith; and what wonders have been accomplished through His people.
There is a work for the people of God in our day. What did the blessed Saviour say unto us before He went away ? He says, The works that I do, ye shall do; and greater works than these shall ye do, because I go to my Father. We find also that when He Commissioned His disciples, as we read in Luke ix, 1, then He called His twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And He sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. And they departed and went through the towns preaching the gospel and healing every where. Has there been any thing taken from this commission since it was given ? if not, then it is the same now.
Then let us contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints; and when we ask our heavenly Father for the things that we need, let us ask in faith, believing; for without faith it is impossible to please God. 0 may we all be wise enough to ask for nothing unless we expect to receive it; and like Jacob of old, wrestle until the break of day, or until we receive the blessing. God is pleased when He beholds His children thus holding on to His promises by Faith.
Are we sick? let us use the remedies prescribed in His word, with faith, and we shall be healed. Are we in perils on the sea or on the land ? let us exercise faith, God will deliver. Are we surrounded with temptation? let us believe that God will deliver; He will, IF we are loving Him and keeping all of His commandments blameless.
My prayer is, 0 Lord, help thy people to come up to the high calling of God which is in Christ Jesus; and throw off every weight, and the sin that doth so easily beset us, that we may run the race set before us.
E. MACOMBER.
The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald Dec. 17, 1861