Building our faith
My grandchildren enjoy playing with Lincoln Logs. So did I, as a child, but I’m not so good at it now. I’m out of practice, I think. As we built houses this week, I wondered, “How is building something with Lincoln Logs (putting pieces together in a recognizable shape) like building our faith? And how is our faith recognizable to others?”
Some actions as we build, we . . .
- Learn–My grandchildren pulled the directions from the box and spread them out to learn.
- Seek guidance–They asked me to help.
- Believe–My two eager helpers believed that Grandma and directions would result in a house.
- Trust–Sister and brother put their trust in me and believed we could accomplish the task.
- Commitment and perseverance–We stuck to the task. When our houses tumbled over, we didn’t give up–we tried again.
- Relationships–We worked together toward our goal, everyone participating and cooperating.
What is faith?
A Google search provides an interesting AI overview.
My NIV Bible shares this answer: Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. (Hebrews 11:1)
What does the term “faith” mean to you?
Building our faith
Learn
As we learn through study of God’s Word, we gain knowledge, learn about the gift of salvation through Jesus, and experience God’s promises.
Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. (Romans 10:17)
We glean knowledge from scripture, through Bible study, regular quiet time with God, and in worship. As we grow in our knowledge and faith, we share the Good News of Jesus Christ with our children, family, peers, and others. Being a witness puts our faith into action.
Seek guidance
As our children and others turn to us to provide guidance and strengthen our faith, we also look to our Father for His guidance, faithfulness, love, and assurance.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:5-6)
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. (Psalm 32:8)
Believe
Even when we have a plethora of evidence about God’s existence, trustworthiness, and faithfulness, it is our decision whether or not we believe. Just as children learn through experience that their parents are trustworthy and faithful, we have our own experiences of His faithfulness. Scripture shares a multitude of examples throughout history of God’s faithfulness to His people.
But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. (John 20:31)
Trust
Children learn to trust their parents and other adults in their lives when we are dependable, consistent, and honest in our actions. Young people need positive roles models for integrity. We learn to place trust in our heavenly Father because He possesses integrity and righteousness at the highest level.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not upon your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Commitment and perseverance
Most of us may experience moments of doubt. Sometimes life gets in the way of our faithful walk with our Lord. But our God is faithful and the Bible assures us He is always with us, no matter the circumstances.
Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Relationships
Throughout life, it’s important that we surround ourselves and our families with people of integrity and trustworthiness. People of faith gather together to support and encourage each other to a life of service to our Lord and to others. Working together in a community of faith, we can truly serve our Lord.
Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promises is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:22-25)
Building log houses and faith
I mentioned I was out of practice building log houses. I could do better if I commit to more consistent practice. My witness to others by sharing Jesus could benefit from more consistent practice as well. How about you?
Consistency makes a world of difference, doesn’t it, Katherine? Thanks for the reminder.
I agree, Diana, I’ve never been able to be consistent with journaling. I wish I could–I know it’s a habit so many find beneficial, but it doesn’t work for me–at least not yet! It’s never too late to start a new, good habit, is it? Wishing you a blessed week.
Pulling out the Lincoln Log instructions made me think of our need to turn to God’s instruction book, the Bible. I had Lincoln Logs as a child. And yes, my witness to others by sharing Jesus could benefit from more consistent practice as well. My pastor surprised me Sunday when he was teaching on spiritual gifts. He commented on writers. He shared, if you’re a writer and your writing encourages, challenges, or calls people to deeper faith, it could be tied to the gift of prophecy (Romans 12:6) or exhortation/encouragement (Romans 12:8). Types of writing in this category include devotional writing, spiritual poetry, or even letters that strengthen someone’s walk with God. If your writing helps explain scripture, theology, or Christian living in a clear and accessible way, it may be an extension of the gift of teaching (Romans 12:7, 1 Corinthians 12:28). When writing reflects deep spiritual insight or reveals truths that help others understand God’s ways, it could be flowing from the gift of wisdom or knowledge (1 Corinthians 12:8). And finally, writing that comforts, guides, and walks with others through pain or healing—like memoirs, letters, or blog posts—might be fueled by the gift of mercy or even pastoral care (Ephesians 4:11). Bottomline, writing is a very powerful way to share Christ and the yes, it leaves the results to God.
Thank you for sharing this encouraging message, Jim. As you know, sometimes we writers wonder if our message is serving God’s purpose. Your pastor (and you) remind us the answer is YES! I’ll re-read your response in those times when I feel like my words are unworthy. When God is with us, His message flows through our writing. You’ve sent a blessing today, my friend.
Your post reminds me of the phrase “building blocks of faith.” As your grandkids have success with a small project, they gain confidence – and trust – to try more challenging ones. When Christians pay attention to answered prayers by thanking Him and maybe noting them in a journal, we gain confidence and trust that God is who the Bible says he is.
It’s a huge responsibility we have as parents, grandparents, teachers, and mentors to our children and young adults. I pray for God’s guidance as we assist Him in shaping the next generations. Those “building blocks” work for us adults, too–at least they did for me. Peace and blessings, Candyce.
I’m reminded of Ephesians 4:29 where we are commanded to build each other up and not tear each other down. We can build or destroy with our words. Standing on the solid rock of Christ can give us the foundation we need to make sure we construct the right type of buildings.
That is such an important aspect of being a Christian–build each other up. Thank you for sharing, Barbara. Being supportive of our Christian brothers and sisters is something I want to do better. There’s too much tearing down going on in these troubled times. Wishing you joy and blessings.
You used some of my favorite scriptures in this. Enjoyed your analogy.
Thank you, Debbie. We are blessed to have God’s Word available on our journey. Thank you for your ministry.
Lincoln Logs… oh, what a beautiful, reflective memory it gave me with my two boys when they were young. I love your analogy with this. Your examples of building faith are a blessed reminder of how important it is for us to be builders of God’s kingdom. Thank you for your blog!
Lisa, thanks so much for stopping by my blog and sharing such kind encouragement. Your message brightened my day with sunshine and blessing. Wishing you a joyful April and bountiful blessings throughout 2025.
What a beautiful analogy for our faith and it provides a way to explain it to others. Thank you Katherine and Lincoln Logs were fun for me too.
I’m blessed beyond measure with the opportunity to spend time with my grandchildren in my retirement. I wouldn’t have any reason to play Lincoln logs again otherwise (and learn many lessons). Your encouragement sends joy and sunshine my way, Yvonne. Thank you!