Can't we be known by our Faith?

     Many non-believers believe that Christians are judgmental, cruel and angry. We are known for pushing our beliefs on others. (sigh) That is hard to think of that.  It fill my heart with sadness that we are known and labeled for that. Can't we be known for something else? Like our faith?

     The Lord's message rang our from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia- your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it.
                                                                              1 Thessalonians 1:8

     What was America like over 200 years ago?  Was the faith of God's children strong as iron?  Did this nation trust God? Was the the United Sates of America known for it's faith?

       America was started on faith! Those who first stepped foot on the Mayflower had to do so by faith.  They believed God would deliver them to the new land safely.

        The war for freedom was by faith.  They trusted God to help them gain freedom from the British and be their own country.

        The black community took slavery and even racism by faith. Trusting and believing God would make them equal in the eyes of America.

        What about now? What is so different now?

                                                  It's Impossible!!
         And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him.
                                                                                 Hebrews 11:6

         Why is it hard to put your faith in God? I'm sure there are plenty of reasons.  Believe me, I have a list of my own.  One reason I can say why we all have a hard time putting our faith in God is because none of us have seen God or felt Him physically.  It is scary believing God but, whenever I feel doubt, I remember all the good things God has done in my life, the amazing and miraculous.

        That is what makes us so different from non-believers and even those who claim to be believers.  Our faith in Christ Jesus (and His grace for us) is what sets us apart. 

                But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the law and the prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.  There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
                                             Romans 3:21-23

       That is how God can do great things through those who fully surrender to Him.  If you let Him, God can love those who ridicule you or treat you like crap. 

       What do you want to be known by?  Your cruelty, countless other things or...by your faith in Christ?