> Faith is not a mere feeling or an intellectual assent, but a living reality for every true Christian. The Bible encourages believers to “examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.” (2 Corinthians 13:5). But how do we do this biblically? This article explores how to examine your faith in light of Scripture, considering the Spirit’s work, the Word of God, the nature of faith, hope, assurance for those who love God, and the necessity of prayer.
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Examining Your Faith: A Biblical Approach
Here is a well-known quote from Jonathan Edwards’ classic work, Religious Affections:
“He that has doctrinal knowledge and speculation only, without affection, never is engaged in the business of religion.”
Jonathan Edwards argued that genuine Christian faith cannot be separated from the heart’s affections. Mere knowledge or profession is not enough; true faith is marked by love—real delight in God Himself. Our affections, especially our love, reveal what we truly value and believe. When affection for God, His Son, His people, His Word, and His ways is real and increasing, it’s strong evidence of authentic, saving faith—just as Jonathan Edwards taught. Conversely, their absence should move us to self-examination and prayer for true spiritual renewal.
Let’s now consider six important biblical indicators of our faith:
1. The Spirit’s Work in the Believer
The Holy Spirit is at work in the life of every Christian, producing fruit (Galatians 5:22-23), convicting of sin (John 16:8), and assuring us of our adoption as children of God (Romans 8:15-16).
Practical Questions:
- Do I see evidence of the Spirit’s fruit (love, joy, peace, etc.) growing in my life?
- Am I convicted when I sin, leading me to repentance?
- Do I have a growing awareness of God’s presence and my identity as His child?
2. The Role of Scripture: Knowing That You Have Eternal Life
The apostle John wrote, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13). Confidence in salvation is rooted in the promises of God’s Word.
Practical Questions:
- Do I regularly read and treasure God’s Word, seeking to align my life with its truths?
- Do I believe what Scripture promises about salvation through Christ?
- Is my assurance based on God’s promises, or my own performance?
3. The Role of Faith
Saving faith trusts in Christ alone for salvation and continues to look to Him. “We have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:69). Paul writes, “I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12), and Hebrews 10:22 urges us to “draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith.” (see also 1 John 5:10).
Practical Questions:
- Do I sincerely trust in Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord alone for eternal life, or do I rely on something else?
- Is my faith growing or stagnant?
- Can I say with conviction: “I know whom I have believed”?
4. The Value of Hope
Biblical hope is a confident expectation in God’s promises, not mere wishful thinking. Psalm 25:3 promises, “No one who waits for you will be put to shame.” Romans 8:25 and Hebrews 6:16-20 point to hope as an anchor for the soul.
Practical Questions:
- Do I find my hope anchored in Christ and what He has done, regardless of my circumstances?
- When facing difficulties, do I cling to God’s promises with patience?
- Does the hope of eternity with Christ shape my choices and attitudes now?
5. God’s Assurance for Those Who Love Him
Romans 8:28 assures us: “We know that for those who love God all things work together for good.” Love for God is a distinguishing mark of genuine faith.
Practical Questions:
- Do I desire to obey God out of love for Him, even when it’s difficult?
- Has my love for God (and others) become more evident over time?
- Do I trust that God’s purposes are good, even in hard times?
6. The Value of Prayer
Prayer is an expression of our dependence and relationship with God. Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him.” James 4:8 encourages, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
Practical Questions:
- Is prayer a regular and vital part of my life?
- Do I find myself wanting to bring my needs, praises, and confessions before God?
- Am I growing in intimacy with God through prayer?
Conclusion: Assessing the Genuineness of Your Faith
Having reflected on these areas, consider your answers:
- If you see ongoing evidence of the Spirit’s work, a love for God and His Word, a reliance on Christ, living hope, and a deepening prayer life (even with real struggles), the Bible gives you reason for assurance. Rejoice in God’s saving grace!
- If you find little or no evidence, or realize your faith is not in Christ alone, take this as a merciful warning. God’s arms are open to those who come honestly, confessing their need.
Whatever your stage, remember: saving faith is not measured by its size, but by its object—Jesus Christ. Even “little faith” directed at Jesus is saving faith (Matthew 14:31; Luke 17:6). But God calls every Christian to grow in grace.
Encouragement and Next Steps
- For those with saving faith: Thank God for His grace. Continue to grow by prayer, Scripture, worship, and fellowship. Ask the Father, Son, and Spirit to strengthen your faith and love.
- For those unsure or struggling: Don’t despair. Pray honestly; ask God to reveal Himself and grant you faith. Read the Gospels afresh, seek wise counsel, and trust God’s promise: “Whoever comes to Me I will never cast out” (John 6:37).
- For those without faith: Know that Christ welcomes all who trust in Him. Repent and believe the gospel—He is faithful to save.
May God grant you assurance of His love and strength to walk with Him, all by His grace and power.
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