The Logic Of Faith

by T.M. Hyland | Category: General | Jan 1990

Paul wrote that in the last few days "men shall be lovers of self... lovers of pleasure" (2 Tim. 3:14). These are prominent features of modern society. "What's in it for me?" is the yardstick frequently applied by men of the world. The disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ has a different philosophy. Self denial must displace self love. Not, "what can I get?" but "what can I give?" is the logic of faith. The argument is forcibly applied in the following extract.

"People talk of the sacrifice I have made in spending much of my life in Africa. Can that be called a sacrifice which is simply paid back as part of a great debt owing to God, which we can never repay? Is that a sacrifice

which brings its own best reward in healthful activity, the consciousness of doing good, peace of mind, and the bright hope of a glorious destiny hereafter? Away with the word in such a view and with such a thought! Say rather it is a privilege. Anxiety, sickness or danger, now and then, with a foregoing of common conveniences, and the charities of this life, may make pause and cause the spirit to sink, but let this only be for a moment. All these are nothing when compared to glory which shall be revealed hereafter in and for us. I never made a sacrifice. It has been nothing but privilege to live, love, and to glorify God" (David Livingstone).

T.M. Hyland | Jan 1990
General