I Believe
“I believe”, is not a phrase that seems to be uttered so much anymore. “I think”, is more common. “The fact is”, is also a popular way to begin an assertion (whether there are any facts presented or just opinion). So, “I believe” is relegated to the backline of statements. Why? I think it has something to do with the variety of things people believe. There are a contingent of people that believe in a multitude of gods. There are a lot of people that believe swearing is normal. And more than a couple that believe there more than two genders. But belief is not opinion, uncertainty, or doubt.
TV lawyers, news casters, and true believers all seem be able to bring doubt into people’s minds; belief does not doubt. There is a beautiful hymn that allows the singer to affirm, “I believe in a hill called Mount Calv’ry; I’ll believe whatever the cost; And when time has surrendered and earth is no more, I’ll still cling to that old rugged cross.” In the second verse, the singer affirms their belief in Christ’s “power to change lives today”.
Believing is mentioned over 200 times in the New Testament. More than 80 times in the gospel of John alone! Jesus repeatedly asks people if they believe or tells them to believe. “Believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14.1) Romans tells us that the gospel “is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes”. Not being an opinion; belief means I am sure and will base my actions around my belief. You probably know all of that, but did you know that one person’s beliefs have impact on another person’s?
In 2003, Navy was losing to Air Force when more than 2,000 Midshipmen began chanting “I believe that we will win”. The firm affirmation, chanted with fervor, drove the Navy team to victory. Now, Navy sells T-shirts with words of the chant. Other teams have adopted the chant due to its impact. What can we learn? Tell others of your beliefs. State openly your belief about Jesus. Others might make fun of you, which empowers the line in the song, “I’ll believe, whatever the cost”. Do you believe Jesus will be alright with you keeping His sacrifice a secret? Inspire others with your statement of belief. “…whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him.” (Hebrews 11.6)