Bible Truth ~ 32

Faith, An Unplanned Journey

I believe in God, but my experience of faith wasn’t something I set out to choose. Many people are surprised by their own faith, as if something gentle and mysterious led them in. I think God, in His kindness, offers grace to each of us—an invitation to be seen, known, and loved as His own (Ephesians 2:8-9). I grew up in a home where the Bible was familiar, and its stories were well known, but I felt no desire, curiosity, or understanding of its message. For the next fifty years, I lived my life without seeking its meaning. Then, when I turned seventy, it was as if God gently whispered that my time had come, and suddenly, I could understand. When I first felt that invitation, it was quiet, almost like a hopeful breath in the background of my life.

God offers the greatest gift: grace. This gift is not earned or achieved; it is given out of love (Romans 3:24). All you need to do is accept it and receive what Jesus has made available. Saying yes to grace means embracing a life of forgiveness, renewal, and hope (John 1:12, Titus 3:5). The beauty of this gift lies in its simplicity: you don’t have to work for God’s approval or prove your worth, and your past is not important. You are invited to accept His gift as you are and let it change your life.

I never expected to be chosen by God or to follow Jesus, but that is the heart of my story: I was drawn into faith when I did not set out to seek it.

Hearts Turned Home

Sometimes, faith starts quietly, with a simple moment of wonder. If you pause and look closely at yourself—the complexity of your mind, the strength and delicacy of your body, the way you feel passion and yearning—you might sense there is more to us than just chance. The way you are made is amazing. The Bible says every person is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), and that He has placed a part of Himself in each of us—a spirit that longs for meaning, goodness, and connection (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Even though we are born with a nature that can be selfish or even do wrong (Romans 3:23), there is still a trace of goodness, a reflection of the Creator’s affection and imagination, in every heart. Now, think about a hummingbird: its heart beats hundreds of times a minute, its wings move so fast they blur, it hovers in the air with ease and has the uncanny ability to fly backwards. The design of this tiny bird, with its bright colours and detailed designs, shows creativity beyond what we can imagine.

When you notice the detailed beauty in yourself and in the world—the birds, animals, and even the smallest insects—it becomes easier to imagine that a divine Artist is shaping life with care and purpose (Genesis 1:1, Romans 1:20). This idea isn’t meant to overwhelm you, but to set you free. Seeing the world this way can make you feel more curious and grateful. You may even find yourself wanting to know this Creator and to live in a way that feels more awake and connected.

Repentance is about gently changing our direction, not following strict rules. It means recognizing when we’ve strayed or hurt ourselves or others and choosing to pursue something better (Acts 3:19). This involves reflecting on our actions and their effects on our lives and those around us, helping us align with our true values. It’s important because each moment is a chance for healing and joy. Life passes quickly, and we never know how much time we have (James 4:14). This uncertainty reminds us to value our relationships and respond to our better instincts. So, why not live with love, forgiveness, and hope? By doing so, we can build deeper connections, enjoy more meaningful experiences, and find a sense of fulfillment that benefits both ourselves and others.

Repentance is important because it leads to freedom. It helps us let go of shame, regret, and habits that hold us back (Psalm 32:1-2). The process isn’t complicated; you don’t need rituals, special words, or perfect understanding. All you need is an honest heart, a willingness to start over, and acceptance of being loved and welcomed (1 John 1:9). This is what Christ offers: a way home, a fresh start, as well as the promise that no one is too far gone or too flawed to be accepted (Luke 15:20-24). When you see this possibility, you start to live in the spirit—a life filled with amazement, peace, and hope (Romans 8:1-2).

Decoding the Digital Age

If you’re exploring faith, the vast amount of information online can be overwhelming. There are many articles, videos, and commentaries about the Bible—some are truthful, while others can be confusing or misleading. It’s crucial to be discerning when reviewing these resources (1 John 4:1). Ask yourself: Does what I’m reading or hearing reflect kindness, humility, and love? Does it promote compassion, forgiveness, and a sense of peace (Galatians 5:22-23)?

You don’t need to have all the answers, join a specific church, or give money for God to care about you. What truly matters is your heart—your honesty and desire for truth (1 Samuel 16:7). God cares more about your inner self than your outward actions. If you feel lost among many voices, remember that faith is not about being perfect but about wanting to know and be known. Rest in this simplicity. You are loved, just as you are (Romans 5:8).

Step Into Your Path

If you feel even a small sense of curiosity or longing for something more, it could be God gently drawing you in (John 6:44). In the Christian story, God leads us toward Jesus with gentleness rather than force, meeting us right where we are. For some, this call feels strong; for others, it is just a quiet interest or a question that will not go away. If you do not feel anything, that is okay too—it might not be your time yet. Faith is not something we create ourselves; it is a gift that comes in its own time and in its own way (Ephesians 2:8).

If you feel drawn, trust that feeling and act on it. Salvation isn’t complicated—it’s as simple as saying yes to the invitation, opening your heart to love, forgiveness, and a new way of living (Romans 10:9-10). We never know how much time we have, and the journey really starts when you choose not to wait. Every instant matters (2 Corinthians 6:2).

Christian hope includes a time called the rapture, when believers will be taken to be with Christ. This event is described as sudden and unexpected. For those who remain, the Bible talks about a period called the tribulation—a time of great struggle and sorrow. These ideas can seem mysterious or even scary, but their point is urgency and hope: the chance to begin your path is open now, and you are invited to accept it before it is too late. The invitation to a life brimming with love, peace, and purpose is available today.

I encourage you to allow your journey to begin, even if it starts quietly. Take the next step with trust and believe that you are loved and guided every step of the way. As you navigate the ups and downs, remember that each moment holds valuable lessons that contribute to your growth. Embrace the unknown with open arms and a gentle heart, for it is in these spaces where transformation truly occurs. The inner peace you discover is awe-inspiring, offering solace in turbulent times and igniting a spark that propels you forward. Trust in the process, and you will find that every little step contributes to the bigger picture of your life’s purpose.

The following 35 Bible verses share important messages about love, hope, faith, and redemption, showing God’s constant presence in our lives. Each verse encourages us to embrace these values, helping us stay strong during tough times, trust in divine guidance, promote forgiveness, and remember the power of grace.

We use the English Standard Version (ESV) Bible (click here for more info)

The English Standard Version (ESV) Bible is one of the most trusted word-for-word translations available today. It’s also easy to read. Known for its accuracy and literary quality, it stays committed to the original biblical texts. It strives to be “as literal as possible” while using clear, modern English. The English Standard Version (ESV) is a highly respected, modern “word-for-word” (essentially literal) translation of the Bible. It’s widely regarded for its precision. This translation stays true to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek manuscripts. The ESV is a favourite among pastors, scholars, and dedicated Bible readers who value its reliability and clarity.

• 1. The Divine Choice – John 15:16
• 2. Called Into Light – 1 Peter 2:9
• 3. Chosen Before Time – Ephesians 1:4-5
• 4. The Chosen Few – Matthew 22:14
• 5. Chosen in Love – Ephesians 1:4
• 6. Clothed in God’s Love – Colossians 3:12
• 7. The Call Of Grace – Galatians 1:15
• 8. Destined Before Birth – Jeremiah 1:4-5
• 9. Chosen And Holy – Deuteronomy 14:2
• 10. God Works for Good – Romans 8:28
• 11. Gentiles Glorify God – Acts 13:48
• 12. Answer The Door – Revelation 3:20
• 13. Drawn by the Father – John 6:44
• 14. Jesus The Way – John 14:6
• 15. Only One True God – Isaiah 43:10
• 16. The Ultimate Gift – John 3:16
• 17. The Victory of Faith – 1 John 5:4
• 18. Chosen Before Creation – Ephesians 1:3-4
• 19. Choose Your Master – Matthew 6:24
• 20. Unfit for the Kingdom – Matthew 22:11-14
• 21. Home With God – Ephesians 2:19
• 22. The Spirit Will Guide – John 16:13
• 23. Offspring of Abraham – Galatians 3:29
• 24. Narrow Way to Life – Matthew 7:13-14
• 25. Granted from Above – John 6:65
• 26. Faith Over Riches – James 2:5
• 27. Designed for Purpose – Ephesians 2:10
• 28. Sons Of God – Galatians 3:26
• 29. The Golden Chain – Romans 8:30
• 30. Always Open Arms – John 6:37
• 31. Defending The Faith – Matthew 24:24
• 32. God’s Unearned Gift – Ephesians 2:8-9
• 33. Grace for the Humble – James 4:6
• 34. By Grace Alone – Romans 11:6
• 35. Grace Replaces Law – Romans 6:14

The ideas of faith and grace as unexpected experiences connect well with theology, psychology, and neuroscience. Here are some important insights into how grace and faith often come to people instead of the other way around.

The Theological Concept of “Prevenient” Grace

In Christian theology, prevenient grace (or resisting grace) refers to the divine grace that acts on a person’s heart before they think about turning to faith. It is seen as a gentle presence that prepares the soul, suggesting that your first move toward faith is a response to something already at work within you.

The Psychological Phenomenon of “Unchosen Affirmation”

Psychologists studying religious conversions often observe that individuals can suddenly feel a deep sense of peace about spiritual matters. This change in perspective is seen as a moment of clarity, where doubts and conflicting thoughts fade away, aligning them with new beliefs. These transformative experiences can be triggered by various factors such as life crises, personal relationships, or exposure to new ideas, marking a significant moment in someone’s spiritual journey. Additionally, this peace is not just emotional; it can also create a physical sense of comfort that inspires further exploration and commitment to their faith.

• It often bypasses logical reasoning initially.
• It feels like a discovery rather than a decision.
• People describe it as “waking up” to a reality that was already there.
• It creates a feeling of being “found” rather than doing the finding.

CS Lewis and the “Surprised by Joy” Experience

C.S. Lewis, a well-known author, was once an atheist and shared his experience in his autobiography, Surprised by Joy. He described his conversion as a reluctant surrender rather than a proud decision, noting that he came to faith “kicking, struggling, resentful, and trying to escape.” Despite this resistance, he felt a gentle desire, which he referred to as “Joy,” that he couldn’t create himself.

Brain Science and Spiritual “Openness”

Neuroscientific studies reveal that spiritual experiences, such as feelings of deep peace or sudden faith, often occur when the brain’s parietal lobe—responsible for our sense of “self”—is less active. When this part of the brain is quieter, the line between ourselves and the universe (or God) becomes less clear. This results in a strong feeling of unity and grace that seems to come from outside of us, rather than being created by our own thoughts.

The “Gift” Etymology

In the original Greek texts of the New Testament, the word most often used for grace is Charis, from which we get the words “charity” and “unearned gift.” The linguistic root implies something that cannot be traded, earned, or intentionally manufactured. True to its definition, if you could strategically plan or choose it on your own merit, it would cease to be grace and instead become a wage or a reward.