Confidence is important in every area of life. When we were young babies, it was helpful as we took those first steps in learning to walk. If we lacked it, we preferred to crawl and perhaps did so a bit longer than others.
As an older child, upon receiving the first bicycle, again confidence became an issue as we learned to ride. For some in later years, there were training wheels that helped us keep our balance. Taking those wheels off could often be an agonizing decision for both child and parent.
In both of the examples above, it becomes apparent there is a correlation between one’s experience and one’s confidence. If the experience is one that is good and positive, confidence grows stronger and there is encouragement to try another step. However, if there is serious failure initially, then one’s confidence takes flight as on the wings of a dove.
Confidence is so greatly needed in our spiritual lives, too. We should be interested in knowing whether the message falling upon our ears is truly from God. Is the speaker or writer speaking as the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:11; 1 Thessalonians 2:13)?
Upon determination the message is truly the message of God, confidence is needed in our hearts as we take those first steps in answering the call of the Gospel. We need confidence that God will keep His promise in cleansing our sins and forgiving our unrighteousness upon our obeying the truth of the Gospel. This is the biblical concept of being saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). “Faith” that is dead is non-responsive; faith that is living is active, responsive and obedient to Jesus, the Lord and Master (James 2:20).
Our confidence in our Heavenly Father grows over time by the positive experiences we have in our walk with Him. He is ever present at our side, watching for our well-being and protecting us in times of spiritual danger. Hear the confidence expressed by one of Jesus’ apostles: “Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me” (Acts 27:25). It happened just as God said. To the brethren at Philippi he wrote with utmost confidence: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). Is it any wonder that within the pages of our hymnal may be found the tried and true lyrics: “God Will Take Care of You”? Because He will never leave us nor forsake us, there is no reason to fear. Time and time again God has proven Himself worthy of our confidence.
