“Ping!” A new message comes in. “Hmm, what’s on Shorts today?”
In a time where distractions are constant, many of us find ourselves longing for something deeper. We want a faith that isn’t just a part of our lives but the very foundation of it.
Whether you’re a long-time follower of Jesus or someone just exploring the faith, the journey toward an authentic, deeply rooted faith is one that requires intentional steps.
Here’s a guide to help you cultivate an authentic faith that not only stands firm but also flourishes in every area of your life.
1. Building Spiritual Discipline
Start by spending unhurried time with God. This isn’t just about fulfilling a religious duty but developing an intimate relationship with Him. Read the Bible, not as a chore, but as a way to know God’s will and understand His heart. Prayer, too, should be a heartfelt conversation with God, where you not only speak but listen.
Corporate worship also plays a vital role. Gathering with others to praise God and learn from His Word reinforces our commitment to Him and to each other. Additionally, giving financially is an act of trust and obedience, reminding us that everything we have comes from God. These disciplines, practised consistently, build a strong spiritual foundation, enabling us to live out our faith with sincerity and authenticity.
2. Building Authentic Christians Relationship
Faith isn’t meant to be a solo journey. Building deep relationships with other believers is crucial in practicing authentic faith. Have fun with fellow Christians—share meals, laugh together, and enjoy each other’s company. These moments of joy build bonds that go beyond Sunday mornings and help us support one another in our walk with God.
Praying together deepens these connections, as does being open and honest about our struggles and triumphs. It’s in these conversations that we find encouragement and accountability. Welcoming someone new into your home or life is also an expression of Christ’s love. Hospitality fosters a sense of belonging and reminds us that we’re part of a larger family, united by faith.
3. Serving Others
Serving others is at the heart of an authentic Christian life. Jesus showed us that true greatness comes from serving, not being served. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, mentoring someone younger, or simply helping a neighbour in need, serving allows us to live out our faith in tangible ways.
Consider how you can use your unique abilities and gifts to bless others. Maybe you’re good at organising events, cooking meals, or teaching. Whatever your talents, they can be used to reflect God’s love and make a difference in the lives of those around you. When we serve, we not only help others but also grow in our own faith, experiencing the joy that comes from giving.
4. Trusting God in Hard Times
Trusting God is easy when life is smooth, but authentic faith is tested in the storm. We’ve all faced moments where trusting God feels impossible—whether it’s a job loss, a health crisis, or a broken relationship. In these moments, it’s important to hold on to the truth that God is in control, even when everything else seems to be falling apart.
Consider reflecting on how trusting God in hard times can transform your faith. We don’t have to travel far to hear stories of how God provided unexpectedly through seasons of uncertainty where we didn’t see a clear way forward—just chat with some members in NCC! Trusting God during difficult moments helps us develop an authentic faith that not only survives but grows stronger through adversity.
5. Living in the Word
Living in the Word means more than just reading the Bible; it means letting Scripture shape your daily life. Acknowledge who God is by regularly reflecting on His character—His love, justice, mercy, and power. This helps us keep our focus on Him, especially when life gets distracting or overwhelming.
Practising gratitude and contentment is another way to live out the Word with authenticity. By intentionally thanking God for His blessings, we learn to be content with what we have, finding joy in His provision.
Don’t forget to take time to rest; it’s a biblical principle that’s often overlooked. Resting is not just about recharging physically, but also about trusting God with our time and responsibilities. Regularly attending corporate gatherings also keeps us grounded in community, reinforcing the truths we learn and reminding us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves.
6. Leading the Lost to Christ
Finally, authentic faith isn’t just about personal growth; it’s about sharing the hope we’ve found with others. Leading the lost to Christ is a natural outflow of a life rooted in Him. This doesn’t require a theology degree—it can be as simple as having a conversation with someone about what God has done in your life.
Consider a time when you shared your faith with a friend or coworker, not by preaching, but by simply talking about how your relationship with Christ has changed your life. It’s these personal stories that often resonate the most. Our actions also play a significant role; by living in a way that reflects Christ’s love, we become living testimonies of the Gospel. Remember, our mission is to be salt and light, helping others discover the life-changing relationship with Christ that we’ve found.
Conclusion
Cultivating authentic faith is a journey marked by intentionality, community, and action. It’s about more than just going through the motions—it’s about allowing our faith to influence every part of our lives, from how we relate to others to how we navigate challenges.
As we commit to these steps, we discover that our faith isn’t just something we hold privately but something that shapes us publicly, making an impact in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
In this journey, may we grow deeper in our relationship with God, live out our faith with authenticity, and lead others to the hope and love we’ve found in Christ.
About New Covenant Community
New Covenant Community Church is a non-denominational church based in Sentul, Malaysia. Our church family strives to love Jesus more, connect people to God and to reconnect the disconnected. Whether you are looking for a church, want to know some new friends or get connected with people, we are the place to be. Drop us a message or visit us on Sunday at Sentul Boulevard, Kuala Lumpur.