THE FASTEST WAY TO INCREASE IN FAITH

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi

Luke 17:5 "And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.

        Nothing is as challenging as the battles we face emotionally when we have to choose between loving and hating someone. We have more reasons not to trust than to love. The prevalence evil makes trusting anyone in a relationship very difficult.

             Observing Jesus’ approach to healing multitudes regardless of their background and religious persuation was quite a challenge to the disciples, given that some of the recipients of these healings were persons  considered to be arch enemies, for example the case of the healing of the daughter of the ruler of the synagogue in Mk 5:22, these were the persons who daily  opposed Jesus Christ and eventually crucified Him; yet He was moved with compassion to heal them.       

        Jesus taught His disciples that temptations will always come (luke17:1) and woe betides the one from whom it comes. There are unpleasant consequences that await those who treat us unjustly. The backlash far outweighs whatever evil that was meted against us. 

   It is against this backdrop that the disciples thought it wise to ask for an increase in their faith knowing how easily we are prone to retaliate when offended, they knew that walking in love and forgiveness requires much faith.
           Faith works only where there is love with a foundation based on God’s mercy and love towards the believer. There is actually no reason strong enough to maintain a loving relationship with any human being because of the exploitative and manipulative tendencies inherent in humanity as a result of the presence of sin in the flesh.      The fellow seeking for a perfect lover is definitely living in self denial. We offend people every day. It may amaze you to know that we offend more people unknowingly than knowingly and if everyone was given the opportunity to vent their anger against their offenders, the world would abruptly come to an end.  Therefore, forgiveness and love through faith are indispensable virtues needed for global peace. It is only because God first loved and forgave us that we can love and forgive others. He forgave us before we repented or asked for forgiveness. God forgave us unconditionally and those who have received this forgiveness through repentance and in faith are the sons of God.   
The scripture admonishes us to forgive as Christ has forgiven us. God offered His forgiveness towards us while we were yet sinners. Therefore,. But only those who receive the offered forgiveness through repentance and faith are received as sons of God.

      We forgive whether or not the other person repents or wants our forgiveness and we are not to give them room to repeat the same act of evil against us by seeking for wisdom  on how to better relate with such a person. It may require demanding for more accountability and transparency in our business and marriages. Usually, every act of infidelity requires an atmosphere of secrecy to manifest, therefore creating a Godly environment were the word of God is becomes the final arbiter in every disagreement makes it hard for infidelity to thrive. Until this is mutually agreed to, we cannot restore such a person to complete relationship.As you read this receive healing wherever you hurt in your marriage,business and finances and a boost in your faith for breakthroughs in Jesus name.    
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email: michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com