Walking the Walk: Living Out Our Faith in Christ
The Christian life is often described as a journey, a walk with God. This metaphor paints a picture of action, progress, and intentionality. In Colossians 1:24–2:15, Paul offers profound insight into what it means to walk in Christ. He challenges believers to stay grounded in the truth of the gospel, to avoid being captivated by hollow philosophies, and to live lives that reflect their faith. His words remind us that our walk is not just about movement, but about moving in the right direction.
Walking in Faith: A Call to Action
Paul’s ministry was rooted in three key elements: proclaiming, warning, and teaching. These are not just pastoral duties but a framework for every believer’s walk with Christ.
1. Proclaiming Christ:
Just as Paul boldly proclaimed Christ crucified, we too are called to share the good news, even when it is met with resistance or indifference. The message of Jesus might be a stumbling block for some and foolishness to others, but it remains the power of God for salvation.
2. Warning and Correcting:
Paul didn’t shy away from warning believers about sin and the dangers of false teachings. His warnings were rooted in love and aimed at realigning the church with Christ. Similarly, we must heed God’s gentle nudges, accepting His discipline as an act of grace that keeps us on the right path.
3. Teaching for Growth:
Just as newborns need nourishment to grow, so do spiritual babes in Christ. Churches thrive not just on inspirational sermons but on systematic teaching that equips believers to mature in their faith.
Ten Walks of the Christian Life
Scripture offers us various “walks” that characterize a life in Christ. Each one is a step toward aligning our lives with God’s will.
1. Walk in the Steps of Faith
Faith is more than belief—it’s action. Abraham’s willingness to leave everything he knew and obey God exemplifies walking in faith.
2. Walk in Newness of Life
Through Christ, we leave behind our old ways and embrace a life filled with love, joy, peace, and purpose.
3. Walk Not According to the Flesh, But the Spirit
Living for Christ often requires setting aside our own desires to follow His plan. It’s about seeking eternal things over temporary pleasures.
4. Walk in Love
True love reflects Christ’s selfless sacrifice. It’s patient, kind, and seeks the best for others.
5. Walk in Light, Not Darkness
A life in Christ shines with goodness, righteousness, and truth, illuminating a dark world.
6. Walk Worthy of the Lord
Our lives should reflect the dignity and purpose of being members of Christ’s body, bearing fruit in every good work.
7. Walk by Faith, Not by Sight
Trusting God means moving forward even when we don’t see the full picture, believing He is at work behind the scenes.
8. Walk as Jesus Walked
Jesus’ life is our model. To follow Him closely is to live a life of service, humility, and obedience.
9. Walk According to God’s Commandments
Love for God is demonstrated through obedience. When we stumble, we strive to correct our course and keep moving forward.
10. Walk in Truth
Grounded in God’s Word, we embrace the truth of who He is and the hope found in Him.
Living a Life that Reflects Christ
Walking with Christ is a daily commitment. It means allowing His Spirit to guide our steps and shape our character. It’s about moving forward in faith, even in the face of challenges. Whether through moments of discipline or seasons of growth, God is always at work, refining us to reflect His image. Paul’s words in Colossians remind us that Christ is all we need. He has forgiven our sins, canceled our debts, and triumphed over every power and authority. As we walk in Him, we are empowered to leave behind the old and embrace the new, becoming a testimony of His grace and truth.
A Call to Walk in His Ways
The walk of faith is not a passive journey—it’s active and intentional. As you consider your own walk with Christ, ask yourself:
• Am I moving forward, or am I stagnant?
• Do my actions reflect the faith I proclaim?
• Am I walking in the Spirit, seeking God’s will over my own?
Wherever you are in your journey, God is calling you to take the next step. Lean into His Word, seek His presence, and let Him guide your path. The world needs more lights in the darkness, more hands and feet of Christ. Will you walk the walk?
From the very beginning, the enemy has had one goal: to steal what rightfully belongs to God’s people. Jesus made it plain in John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy." The devil isn’t just trying to make life difficult—he wants to take something specific from you. He wants to rob you of your position, your authority, and your identity in Christ.
The book of Jude may be short, but its message is packed with depth and urgency. As we continue through this powerful letter, we find Jude urging believers to contend for the faith—to struggle for it, defend it, and stand firm in it. This isn't about being argumentative or contentious, but about upholding the truth with both boldness and grace.
In Luke 5:4-11, we find a powerful moment between Jesus and Simon Peter. After a long, frustrating night of catching nothing, Jesus tells Peter to launch into the deep and let down his nets for a catch. Peter, exhausted and doubtful, responds, "Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing. Nevertheless, at Your word, I will let down the net." Did you catch that? Jesus said nets—plural—but Peter only let down one.
Trusting Jesus doesn’t always look the same. Sometimes, it means stepping out in faith, taking action, and moving forward. Other times, it requires waiting—resting in Him and allowing Him to work things out in His timing. We want to fix things ourselves, to hustle and strive for solutions, but sometimes, God says, “Wait. I will fix it. I will work it out.”
Have you ever looked in the mirror and felt like you weren’t enough? Maybe you’ve been weighed down by past mistakes, insecurities, or the voices of the world telling you that you’ll never measure up. But what if I told you that the version of yourself you see isn’t the version that God sees?
Picture a vineyard, lush with green vines and branches heavy with ripe, juicy grapes. The vine dresser walks through the rows, pruning shears in hand. Every snip and cut, though painful to the branch, is intentional—designed to create space for greater fruitfulness. This image, drawn from John 15, paints a vivid picture of God’s role in our lives.
The message of Isaiah 43 and the testimonies shared are clear: God is in the business of making a way. If He could create rivers in the desert for Israel, heal broken bodies, restore shattered lives, and protect His children in impossible situations, He can do the same for you.
As you step into this new year, ask yourself: Am I building a life that stands the test of time? Let this be the year you align your life with His will and bring hope to the valleys around you.
Sacrifice is rarely glamorous. It’s often messy, challenging, and uncomfortable. But woven into its fabric is a profound beauty—a beauty that reveals itself in the blessings and transformations only sacrifice can bring.
The story of Christmas is one of unexpected invitations, unlikely guests, and extraordinary grace. From a humble stable in Bethlehem to the trenches of World War I, the message is clear: God’s table is for everyone.
Hope Church of Iron Mountain is a 501c3 nonprofit registered in the USA, under EIN 99-0826997.
Contact us
©2024 HOPE CHURCH OF IRON MOUNTAIN, INC.
THE CHURCH FOR IRON MOUNTAIN