Finding the True Focus of Faith in Simple Terms
Faith is like the foundation of a house—it’s what everything else is built on in our spiritual lives. A house needs to be built on solid ground. Similarly, our faith must focus on the right things. The Bible gives us clear warnings about what happens when our faith gets off track, or becomes “misguided.” Let’s break down what that means in everyday language.
What Is Misguided Faith?
Misguided faith is when someone puts their trust in the wrong things. Instead of relying on God, they rely too much on money, possessions, or even other people. The Bible shows us that this kind of faith doesn’t lead to real happiness or true security.
What Does the Bible Say?
Don’t Put Your Trust in Wealth (Psalm 49:6-7)
These verses basically say: “Don’t think your money or your stuff can save you or anyone else.” Money comes and goes. No matter how much you have, it can’t buy your way to God. It also can’t buy lasting peace. If we put our faith in our bank accounts, we’re missing out on what really matters.
· Main Idea: Money can’t save you. Faith in wealth is empty.
Don’t Rely Only on People (Psalm 146:3)
This verse tells us: “Don’t look to leaders or important people to be your savior—they can’t do what only God can.” People can help us, but they’re not perfect. They make mistakes, just like we do. If we expect them to meet all our needs, we’ll end up disappointed.
· Main Idea: People aren’t perfect. Only God is fully trustworthy.
Why Does Misguided Faith Matter?
When our faith is pointed at the wrong things, we lose out on the real purpose of faith. If we chase money or depend on others to fix everything, we can miss God’s bigger plan for us. It can also make us feel empty inside, no matter how much we have.
· Focusing on money or people can lead to disappointment.
· It keeps us from growing closer to God.
· It can make life feel less meaningful.
How Do We Get Our Faith Back on Track?
1. Trust God’s Wisdom (Proverbs 3:5-6)
The Bible says: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and don’t just trust your own ideas. Let God lead you, and He’ll show you the right path.” This means we should look to God for guidance instead of thinking we always know best.
2. Build a Relationship with God (James 4:8)
It’s not just about believing in God from a distance. The Bible says, “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” Spend time with God through prayer, reading, or just being honest with your thoughts. The closer you get, the stronger your faith will be.
3. Put Faith into Action (James 2:17)
Faith isn’t just something you think or feel—it’s something you do. The Bible says, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” Show your faith by helping others, being kind, and living the way God teaches.
Wrapping It Up
Misguided faith is a warning sign—one that reminds us to check what we’re trusting in. The Bible is clear: Faith works best when it’s centered on God, not money or people. When we trust God and grow in our relationship with Him, our faith becomes strong. It becomes unshakeable when we live out what we believe, no matter what life throws at us.
So ask yourself: Where is your faith focused? If you feel it’s off track, remember that it’s never too late to point it back toward God. He is always ready to guide you home.
Minister A Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 