“I believe in God.” “I believe in Jesus.” “I believe that Jesus died on the cross. “I believe that Jesus rose from the grave.” Those statements sound about right, don’t they? Certainly, but consider these words:

“You believe that God is one. Good! Even the demons believe – and they shudder.”

Those words were written by a former skeptic of Jesus, who became a devoted follower. Even unto death. He also happened to be Jesus’ younger brother James. Those words can be found in a letter entitled with his name.

“Trust” is the best English word we have for what Bible translates “believe.” It is one thing to believe, but another to trust. We must trust when we don’t fully understand, or possibly even believe. Belief, as intellectual assent, requires nothing. Trust demands action.

It is in a crisis that our trust, or belief, reveals itself. When faced with a decision, do we trust what God has revealed through scripture, or do we follow our “heart”? Our heart has been known to deceive us and lead us astray. Scripture says the heart is deceitful above all things (Jer 17:9) and lead us into destruction. Our heart is rebellious, selfish, greedy, and always seeking its own way. That is why Jesus said that if we want to follow him, we must deny ourself and take up our cross.

What do your actions proclaim about your relationship with Jesus?