For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God— not the result of works, so that no one may boast (Eph. 2:8-9).
“Return to me, I will restore you so you can continue to serve me” (Jeremiah 15:19)
The journey back to authentic faith in Christ is a profound and deeply personal calling. It’s a return to the core of our relationship with God. It is a renewal of the love, trust, and obedience that forms the foundation of true discipleship. This return invites us to re-center our lives on the unshakable truth of Christ’s grace. We do this even in a world often filled with distractions, struggles, and spiritual dryness. It also reminds us of Christ’s redeeming power.
The Call to Return
Throughout Scripture, God consistently calls His people to return to Him. One such poignant invitation is found in Jeremiah 15:19. In this verse, God declares, “Return to me. I will restore you so you can continue to serve me.” This verse encapsulates two profound truths. First, God’s arms are always open to receive us. Second, restoration leads to renewed purpose. Returning to authentic faith benefits us. It also serves the glory of God and His mission through our lives.
True faith in Christ transcends intellectual agreement or fleeting emotions. It is a life-changing journey marked by reliance on God’s grace, repentance, growth in Christlikeness, and obedience to His will. This faith invites us to move beyond surface-level spirituality and embrace a deeper, more intimate relationship with Jesus.
Key Aspects of Authentic Faith
1. Complete Reliance on God’s Grace
Authentic faith begins with recognizing that salvation is a gift from God. It is not something we can earn through our own efforts (Ephesians 2:8-9). This reliance on grace liberates us from striving and invites us into a posture of trust and humility.
2. Acceptance of Jesus as Savior and Lord
Acknowledging Jesus as the Son of God and the sole path to salvation is central to true faith (Romans 10:9). It’s a declaration of our commitment to follow Him as the ultimate authority in our lives.
3. Repentance and a New Life
True faith leads to turning away from sin and embracing a life of obedience to God. This transformation is not a one-time event but a continuous process of aligning our hearts and actions with God’s will.
4. Growth in Christlikeness
Faith is demonstrated through an ongoing journey of becoming more like Jesus in character and actions. This growth involves both joy and refinement, as reflected in 1 Peter 1:7: “So that the genuineness of your faith, which is more valuable than gold that perishes when tested by fire, may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus, the Messiah, is revealed.”
5. Obedience to God’s Will
Living out our faith through obedience is essential. As James 2:17 reminds us, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” Genuine faith is active and visible in how we live, love, and serve.
6. Trust in God’s Promises
Faith rests on the assurance that God is faithful and will keep His promises. This trust enables us to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7), even when circumstances challenge our understanding.
Reflection: Returning to My First Love
I love the Lord Jesus with all my heart! Yet, I recognize how easy it is to let the noise of life cloud the clarity of my devotion. Returning to authentic faith requires me to pause, reflect, and surrender anew. It is a humbling yet exhilarating process of rediscovering the beauty of the Gospel and the depth of Christ’s love for me.
As I meditate on Jeremiah 15:19, I am reminded that God’s restoration is not just about healing but about equipping me for His service. My return to Him is not an end but a beginning—a chance to grow deeper in faith, to love more fervently, and to serve Him with renewed purpose.
Encouragement for the Journey
For anyone seeking spiritual renewal, take heart in the truth that God is always ready to meet you where you are. The path back to authentic faith may involve repentance, intentional steps of obedience, and a renewed focus on God’s Word, but it is a journey filled with grace and hope.
Here are some guiding verses to encourage you as you return to Christ:
· James 2:17: “So faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
· Hebrews 11:6: “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because whoever comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
· Romans 10:17: “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
· Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
· 2 Corinthians 5:7: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
Conclusion
Returning to authentic faith in Christ is an invitation to a life of deeper spiritual depth, joy, and purpose. It is a journey marked by grace, transformation, and a renewed commitment to serve God with all that we are. As we turn back to Him, we find not only restoration but also the strength and clarity to fulfill His calling on our lives.
May we all echo the words of the psalmist: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). Let us return to Christ, and in His love and grace, be made whole once more.
The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 