Have you ever felt like faith is a never-ending checklist? Like you need to measure up, do more, or prove yourself worthy of God’s love? I used to think that too. But then I heard a sermon that completely changed my perspective. I visited Linc Church again this past sunday and heard a life changing sermon from the preacher.
It wasn’t about striving harder or earning favor – it was about learning to let God love me. The preacher shared a story that hit me deep. Imagine a little girl running from her father, scared, unsure, thinking she has to figure things out on her own. But when she falls, her father rushes toward her – not to scold, but to embrace. “I won’t let you go until you learn to let me love you,” he whispers. That’s exactly how God pursues us. Not as a judge waiting for us to fail, but as a loving Father longing to draw us close.
Faith isn’t about proving ourselves to God. It’s about trusting that He already loves us beyond measure. So let’s dive into what it truly means to embrace faith and live in the freedom of His love.
1. Faith is About Trust, Not Performance
For years, I thought faith meant following all the rules perfectly. Go to church. Pray enough. Read enough scripture. But faith isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about trusting God completely.
Galatians 2:16 reminds us: “A person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ.” It’s not our efforts that save us, but our belief in Him. The moment we grasp this truth, our faith becomes liberating, not burdensome.
2. God is Not Keeping Score
Many of us live as though God has a giant scoreboard, tracking our wins and losses. Did I pray enough today? Did I mess up too much? But Psalm 103:12 tells us, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” God isn’t tallying our failures. He’s extending grace, waiting for us to trust in His mercy.
3. Let Go of Fear and Embrace Love
Fear and faith don’t mix. When we live in fear—fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of not being enough—we miss out on the fullness of God’s love. 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.” The more we embrace His love, the less fear controls us.
4. Faith is a Relationship, Not a Religion
Religion says, “Do this, and maybe God will love you.” Relationship says, “God already loves you, come closer.”
In John 15:5, Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” Notice He doesn’t say, “If you work hard enough, I’ll accept you.” No, He invites us to remain in Him—to be connected, to abide.
5. Learn to Rest in God’s Presence
In a world that glorifies hustle, we often forget that faith involves rest. Not just physical rest, but resting in God’s promises.
Matthew 11:28 reminds us: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” If you’re exhausted trying to be “good enough,” take a step back. Let God carry the weight.
6. God is With You in the Struggle
Trusting God doesn’t mean life will be easy. It means you won’t face challenges alone. Romans 8:28 assures us: “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” Even in the hardest seasons, God is weaving something beautiful.
7. Faith Grows Through Surrender
We often think faith means having all the answers. But real faith is saying, “God, I don’t know what’s next, but I trust You.” Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Faith grows when we stop trying to control everything and start surrendering to His plan.
Key Takeaways
- Faith is about trust, not performance. Stop striving and start resting in His love.
- God isn’t keeping score. His grace is greater than your failures.
- Let go of fear. Fear limits, but God’s love frees.
- Faith is a relationship. It’s about staying connected to God, not just following rules.
- Rest in Him. You don’t have to carry life’s burdens alone.
- God is always working. Even in the struggle, He’s moving on your behalf.
- Surrender is key. The more we let go, the more we grow.
Final Thoughts
Faith isn’t about striving. It’s about surrendering.
If you’ve been feeling like you have to earn God’s love or prove your worth, take a deep breath. Right here, right now, God is whispering, “Let me love you.” You don’t have to run. You don’t have to perform. Just rest in His presence.
So, where in your life is God asking you to trust Him more? What would happen if you finally let go of the pressure and embraced His love?
Faith is a journey, not a finish line. And every step we take toward Him, He meets us with open arms.
If you’re looking for more ways to grow in faith, check out Desiring God or dive into scripture with Bible Gateway. Let’s walk this journey together, leaning into His grace every step of the way. Wait! before you go checkout David’s story of faith.
John Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations.
