The faith that you have, have it to yourself before God. Blessed is the person who does not condemn himself in what he approves.
Truth to Learn
Living in God’s presence affects our decisions and choices.
Behind the Words
The word translated “faith” is pistis, which means “that about which we have been persuaded” or “that which we believe.”
“Before” is translated from enōpion. This is made up of en, meaning “in” and a form of ops, which literally refers to the eyes but figuratively refers to the face. Hence, enōpion means “in the face of, in the presence of, or before.”
The word “blessed” is translated from the Greek word makarios. Some translations us the word “happy.” The problem with this translation is that happy (from the root hap meaning “luck as a favorable circumstance”) actually refers to the joy that comes from good fortune. Makarios, on the other hand, refers to a state of blessedness in which peace and satisfaction come from God, not favorable circumstances.
Meaning Explained
Now Paul tells us how to discern whether or not we should do something. This is of extreme importance as it applies to all those things which are not specifically identified as wrong in the New Testament. This would include such things as: Should I accept an offer for a new job? Should I buy a particular house or a new car at this time? Is it okay if I drink a glass of wine? None of these things are strictly forbidden and we are not likely to hear the voice of God giving us direct revelation regarding these things.
Since Paul is talking to believers, he knows that they have faith. But how that faith is demonstrated is important. He says, “Have it to yourself before God.” That is, since you are saved and have a relationship with God, make it a personal relationship. Believe what you believe because God has convicted you and converse with God about everything you do, especially those things about which specific direction is not given in the Bible. Live your life in His presence. That is, live your life with the awareness that God is present with you at all times.
Finally, Paul tells us that we are blessed, that is, at peace with God, when we do not condemn ourselves for those things which we approve. There are many decisions that we make daily. When we follow through with a personal decision we are “approving” the decision and acting on it. Blessing, or peace with God, comes when we are not judging our own actions to be wrong in the presence of God. As the Apostle John said:
Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God. (I John 3:21)
We Christians should live our lives recognizing that we are always in God’s presence. As His servants we are to obey him. As His children we should want to please Him, so we should make our decisions in a manner that will please Him. If what we are about to do is wrong, He will let us know because our conscience will be troubled. Paul will finish these thoughts in the next verse.
Application
Are you living your life in the presence of God? Doing so will have an impact on how you live your life. Remember, ignoring God doesn’t mean you aren’t in His presence!