Faith Speaks
Introduction
In this blog, let's explore how faith has a voice, and how the voice of faith is inherently the voice of victory. As Revelation 12:11 (NKJV) tells us:
“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.”
Understanding the Terms: Word and Testimony
Word (Logos)
In Revelation 12:11, the term "word" comes from the Greek word "logos," which generally means "word," "speech," "message," or "reason." Here, it specifically refers to the spoken declaration or proclamation of the believers’ faith and experiences with God.
Testimony
The "word of their testimony" signifies the verbal and public declaration of the believers' personal experiences of God's intervention, salvation, and faithfulness in their lives. This testimony is a powerful weapon in the spiritual battle against Satan, reinforcing the victory won by Christ through His sacrifice.
The Significance of Word and Testimony
Overcoming Power
The combination of "the blood of the Lamb" and "the word of their testimony" illustrates the twofold means by which we as believers overcome Satan. Christ’s redemptive work and our active participation in proclaiming and living out our faith are both crucial.
Encouragement and Strength
Public declarations of faith encourage us as well other believers, to remind ourselves of God's faithfulness and power. This collective strength fosters unity and resilience against spiritual attacks.
Boldness and Commitment
Willingness to share our testimony, even at the risk of persecution or death, demonstrates a profound commitment to Christ. This boldness testifies to the transformative power of faith and our unwavering trust in God.
Faith in Action: Speaking Our Faith
It is important to note faith is more than a silent belief; it is an active and vocal declaration of God’s promises. When we speak our faith, we align our words with God’s truth, creating an atmosphere of belief and expectation. The Bible encourages us to declare our faith boldly, as our words have power as stated in Proverbs and then in Corinthians
Proverbs 21:18 (NKJV)
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.”
2 Corinthians 4:13 (NLT)
“And since we have the same spirit of faith according to what is written, 'I believed and therefore I spoke,' we also believe and therefore speak.”
How to Speak Our Faith and Its Outcomes
1. Declare God’s Promises
Find scriptures that relate to your situation and speak them out loud. For example, if you need strength, declare Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
2. Use Affirmations
Create daily affirmations based on biblical truths. Affirmations like "I am loved by God" (Jeremiah 31:3) or "God has plans to prosper me" (Jeremiah 29:11) can reinforce your faith.
3. Prayer
Incorporate scripture into your prayers. Pray with confidence, using God’s word to remind yourself of His promises.
4. Praise and Worship
Engage in regular praise and worship, singing songs that declare God’s greatness and faithfulness. Music has a powerful way of reinforcing faith.
5. Testify
Share your faith and testimonies with others. Speaking about what God has done in your life strengthens your faith and encourages others.
6. Speak Positively
Avoid negative talk that contradicts God’s promises. Speak words of life and hope, focusing on what God can and will do.
Outcomes of Speaking Our Faith
1. Creating an Atmosphere of Belief
When we speak God’s truth, it changes the atmosphere around us. Words of faith dispel doubt and fear, replacing them with hope and confidence.
2. Strengthening Personal Faith
Repeatedly declaring God’s promises helps to internalize them, making our faith stronger and more resilient in the face of challenges.
Romans 10:17 (NLT)
“So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.”
3. Encouraging Others
Vocalizing our faith inspires those around us. When others hear our confident declarations, it can boost their faith and encourage them to trust in God’s promises.
4. Invoking God’s Power
Speaking faith invites God’s intervention. The Bible says that life and death are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). Our words can bring God’s life-giving power into situations.
5. Manifesting God’s Promises
As we align our words with God’s truth, we will see His promises manifest in our lives. Faith-filled declarations can lead to tangible changes and blessings.
6. Building a Faith Community
When a community of believers speaks faith, it builds a collective atmosphere of expectation and trust in God, leading to a unified and strong faith community.
Biblical Examples of Triumphant Shouts
The Walls of Jericho (Joshua 6:20)
One of the most striking examples of vocal faith in the Bible is the fall of Jericho's walls. God instructed Joshua and the Israelites to march around the city once for six days. On the seventh day, they were to march around it seven times, and then the priests were to blow the trumpets. At Joshua’s command, the people shouted loudly, and the walls of Jericho collapsed, allowing them to take the city.
Joshua 6:20 (NLT)
"When the people heard the sound of the ram's horns, they shouted as loud as they could. Suddenly, the walls of Jericho collapsed, and the Israelites charged straight into the town and captured it." -
Jehoshaphat’s Victory (2 Chronicles 20:21-22)
Another powerful story is that of King Jehoshaphat, who faced a vast army. Instead of panicking, he appointed singers to go ahead of the army, singing praises to the Lord. As they began to sing and praise, the Lord caused confusion among their enemies, leading to a miraculous victory.
2 Chronicles 20:21-22 (NLT)
"After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: “Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!” At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves." -
Paul’s Encouragement to the Philippians (Philippians 4:4)
Paul, despite being imprisoned, encouraged the Philippians to rejoice always. His letters were filled with joy and encouragement, showing that even in the darkest times, vocal faith can bring strength and hope.
Philippians 4:4 (NLT)
"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!" -
Modern-Day Applications and Illustrations
Personal Testimonies
Consider a young woman facing financial difficulties. She chooses to declare God's provision over her life daily, reciting, "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). Through persistent prayer and declarations, she begins to receive unexpected job offers and financial blessings, transforming her situation. God's Word always works for us when we adhere to the principles of faith. Faith consistently speaks what God says.
Conclusion and Reflection
Faith, when vocalized, has the power to break down barriers, bring victories, and transform lives. By understanding and practicing speaking our faith, we align ourselves with God’s will and witness His miraculous works in our lives.
Reflective Questions:
So, ask yourself
How can I incorporate speaking my faith by declaring God’s promises into my daily routine?
What promises from the Bible can I start declaring over my life today?
How can I encourage others to do this as well?
Call to Action
Based on the information found within this blog, what specific, immediate action should we take?
1. Share Personal Stories of Faith
Why: It inspires us and uplifts our faith community.
How: By sharing your testimonies of what God has done in your life during church services, small groups, or on social media.
Example: A believer facing persecution continues to share how Christ transformed their life, inspiring others to faith.
2. Live Out Your Faith
Why: Our actions reflect and reinforce spoken testimony.
How: Reflect faith in daily actions and engage in acts of kindness.
Example: A young woman declares God’s provision daily and experiences unexpected blessings, turning her situation around.
3. Practice Speaking Faith
Why: It reinforces and internalizes faith, creating an atmosphere of belief.
How: Speak daily affirmations, incorporate scripture into prayers, and engage in praise and worship.
Example: Engage in regular worship, singing songs that declare God’s greatness.
4. Stand Firm in Persecution
Why: It encourages steadfast faith in adversity.
How: Share your faith courageously and seek support within your faith community.
Example: Paul, despite imprisonment, encouraged rejoicing in the Lord, showing strength in vocal faith.
By embracing these actions, we proclaim and live out our faith, overcoming challenges through Christ's sacrifice and our testimonies, and strengthening the faith community.
(New Living Translation Bible, 1996)
(New King James Version, 1975)