Lord, Increase My Faith

What doth it profit, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him?—James 2:14.

Many of God's dear children are often in doubt and perplexity, lest their faith should not be the faith of God's elect; to which salvation is sure. This may arise through the weakness of their understanding in the word of truth; and because, as yet, faith doth not bring forth the fruits of joy and assurance. But sooner or later the Holy Ghost, in believing, will make this matter clear and satisfactory to their hearts. But the soundness and orthodoxy of our faith is least of all suspected by us while in a state of nature; for we all think, are very confident, have not the least doubt, we all say "we have faith," true faith; but this is a weed which grows wild in nature's field; this is the faith which James here speaks of, which all the world rest in who know not the Son of God. All men have not faith, the faith of God's elect. If we say we have faith, what doth it profit if it brings no glory to God, no good to men; it deceives the soul who has it. "Can faith save him?" O, what disputes and contentions hath this question raised! Some have even set James at variance against Paul, as though the former contended for salvation by works, against the latter. "Can faith save him?" A question equal to an assertion. It cannot. The supply of one word here puts the matter beyond all dispute. Can SUCH a faith save him? No; it is impossible. But dost thou, O Christian, think thy faith, though accompanied with good works, can save thee? Verily, no more than thy repentance or thy love; these are alike gifts of grace by Jesus Christ; given not to rival the Saviour in the heart, nor to share with him in the glory of salvation, but to honor him and comfort his members. We are not saved FOR faith, but through faith; yet faith is a precious grace of covenant-love; it endears a precious Saviour to the heart, and "works by love."

But ever know, faith doth not procure God's love, obtain his favor, make atonement for sins, work out a righteousness to justify, nor merit the power of the Spirit to sanctify; all this is enjoyed in believing, but not procured by faith. Faith, like the Baptist's voice, cries in the soul, "Behold the Lamb of God." It claims no share in fulfilling terms of peace, or obeying conditions of salvation. By faith we honor God's word, look to his everlasting love, rely on Jesus, mourn over sin, abhor ourselves, and repent as in dust and ashes. Peace, love, joy, and all inward fruits, as well as outward obedience; a holy walk, fruitfulness in every good word and work, are produced by the Holy Spirit, from the life and vigour of faith. How doth it concern us daily to pray, "Lord, increase our faith!"—Luke 17:5.

- William Mason, A Spiritual Treasury for the Children of God, Volume 1, November 3