New shoes and genuine faith

2 Timothy 1:5 (ESV)

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.

If you were asked to choose between wearing a brand new pair of Nike shoes or wearing some shoes from the bargain store, which would you choose? If you’re like most people you’d chose the brand new Nike shoes.  That’s because for most people, the ‘off brand’ or ‘generic brand’ just doesn’t cut it. They want the real thing. They want something authentic or genuine.

In the same way, your faith should be something that is genuine and authentic in your life. Paul gives Timothy a pat on the back for his genuine faith in our verse today.

Let’s take a look at a few things genuine faith looks like:

Genuine faith is sold out to God

Genuine faith is fresh and active

Genuine faith doesn’t blend in – it lets God change the way you live.

Genuine faith isn’t boring or outdated

Genuine faith believes that the things God says in the Bible aren’t suggestions, they’re a way of life.

Genuine faith doesn’t compromise

Genuine faith causes action

Genuine faith isn’t based on feelings

Genuine faith looks different than off-brand or generic Christianity. It acts differently than off-brand Christianity. So, how does your faith rate? Is it generic or authentic?

Dear Lord, help us to work toward having authentic faith. Give us the strength to be the people that You want us to be. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.