jay's Corner

Confidence Rooted In Christ! (Hebrews 3:6) 

Confidence- Boldness In Action! The several New Testament words translated as “confidence” are not, strictly speaking, perfect synonyms. Often the meaning is shaded just a little in a direction to give a flavor of meaning distinct from other terms which might also be rendered “confidence.” The word this month, πεποίθησις (pepoithēsis) seems to lean in the direction of boldness, or bold action. For example, in 2 Corinthians 3:4, Paul had confidence through Christ “toward God” to boldly assert (3:2, 3) that the Corinthians were a “letter of Christ,” nurtured or cared for by him by the power of God. The boldness of confidence in Christ gave strength to Paul’s work. We are bold when we are sure. When we absolutely believe that God has the best, unstoppa- ble, perfectly on target plan and power, then we throw ourselves into whatever task is before us. This is not arrogant trust in ourselves but looking beyond ourselves to the bigger picture of what God can accomplish through us. Praising and serving Him amid what we perceive to be weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9, 10). The only qualifier to this boldness is to understand that it is rooted in faith, or trust that acts (James 2:14-26). It grows as we grow in knowledge and application of the Word. The experi- ence of success in serving God begets more bold confidence! God has plans for Cornerstone Christian Church. As a “member” (part of the Body), we all have a significant role to play. You may think your contribution is small, but the small parts are often vital for success. Don’t think in terms of comparison to other people- think in terms of learning to please God (Colossians 1:9-12). Is there something that requires boldness that you’ve been hesitant to do? Perhaps giving that invitation to a friend who needs a place of fellowship and growth? Or boldness to be a quiet encourager to others, who may be needing it badly?