Living the life of faith Published Jan. 10, 2012 By Chaplain (Maj.) Olga Westfall 94th Airlift Wing Chaplain Office DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- When you hear the word "faith" what comes to your mind? Maybe you struggle with the following questions: What is faith? What good do I get from having faith? Do I need it to live a successful life? In the Bible, Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. In other words, it is something that you don't see with your natural eyes but firmly believe it. Faith may help to give enough light to see the way even in the darkest night of your circumstances. It will encourage you not to give up, not to quit but to persevere and believe that it is going to be all right. It will promote integrity, and help you to make the right choices even when nobody is looking. Faith is not a noun, it's a verb. It's not just something you have, but it's also something that you do. A cup of coffee is something that you have; raising children or serving your country is something that you do, likewise is faith. It isn't something that only comes into play in the midst of adversity. Sure, Anne Frank and Martin Luther King, Jr. have exemplified the value of faith in the midst of personal and national adversity, but most of us will be called upon to live out our faith in much more routine circumstances. Our personal faith influences and shapes our response to even the most mundane events in our lives. Faith is influencing our perspectives and responses whether we are tending children, interacting with a spouse, attending meetings, maintaining our homes, or responding to adverse and challenging situations. It helps us to see beyond routine, to life's big picture. It compels us to enjoy and make the most of every moment. A great psychiatrist, Smiley Blanton used to say that he would help any person to become well if he could get that person to put up a real fight within him or herself to believe. As we set realistic goals, it is fundamental to believe that they are achievable and strive to reach them. The doubts, fear and negativism might appear on the path but don't let them discourage you. Don't give up, keep on believing! Go all the way, do the best you can and leave the outcome to God. The end result is worth it! In conclusion, I would like to quote a few "action techniques" from Norman Vincent Peale, author of Faith Builders: · Visualize your mind so full of faith that fear is crowded out. · Read an inspirational book; associate with inspiring persons. Practice your faith. · Practice stretching your faith - never build a case against yourself. · Affirm "I put my life in God's hands. I trust God's guidance. I leave the outcome to God."
