Living by Faith

“My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2).  The Puritan David Clarkson has some very helpful thoughts on the subject of faith, that are summarized by this verse: “It is our privilege to live by faith.  Living by faith is not a single act, but something habitual and permanent.  Faith is a constant dependence upon God, as he is made known in  his attributes.  The divine attributes are the grounds of our faith.  Faith believes them and claims them.  Study the attributes of God.  Labor to know them distinctly and effectually.  The more we know the more we trust.  Be much in the thoughts of God: frequently, delightfully and consistently.  These bring a divine influence unto the soul, and leave deep impressions of God.”  Two of the finest recent books on this vital subject are Trusting God by Jerry Bridges and Knowing God by J. I. Packer.  Bridges’ book has helped countless Christians to grow in faith by learning about God.  Packer’s book is a modern classic.  I have read it several times and have never failed to benefit from it.  Both books focus on the attributes of God and how they sustain faith.  I cannot recommend them too highly.