Borrowing Faith

I just realized that I’ve been living off of the faith of my parents. How do I own my faith?
Living off of someone else's faith is like borrowing something from a friend. No matter what you borrow--a car, cell phone, clothes, CDs, or faith--it isn't yours and must be returned.

Solomon was challenged to 'learn to know the God of your ancestors intimately' (1 Chron 28:9). In other words, he wasn't to settle for hearing how someone else trusted God. He needed to find out for himself.

During these years, your faith will be tested. Friends who do not believe in Christ may see nothing wrong with doing things that would cause your conscience to start screaming in protest. That's when you will have to make a choice: Will you go along with your friends or will you stand on what you believe? If your faith is strong (if it is yours and not your parents' or your youth leader's), no amount of pressure from friends will be able to blow you away. (See Matt 7:24-27.)

Consider taking these steps to help develop your faith. First, make sure you have asked Jesus Christ to forgive your sin and come into your life. Second, begin to ask questions about the Bible. God wants you to understand it as well as believe and obey it. Third, look for other Christians who are excited about developing their faith in God--people who do not want to settle for second best. What you learn from them can convince you that being a Christian is worth the work and is 100 percent right for you!