How can it benefit me to believe that Jesus is God?

By Dr. Jocephus Bingham Sr.

Belief in Jesus as God has various effects on people's lives. For some, it offers profound purpose and meaning, providing solace during hardship. This faith often builds community. It creates networks of like-minded people who share values and support each other. Such social connections can boost mental and physical health.

Jesus' teachings may shape one's moral compass, inspiring virtuous living. Many charities and organizations founded in His name have aided countless people worldwide. Emulating Jesus can foster empathy and compassion. This may create a more harmonious society.

But, these benefits differ significantly depending on individual perspectives and experiences. Some find inspiration in faith. Others are skeptical or reject it. Believing in Jesus as God has a deep, personal impact. It reflects diverse worldviews and beliefs. We must approach this topic with an open mind. People interpret and experience faith in many ways.

1. Believing Jesus is divine brings profound meaning to many. It anchors their worldview, connecting them to something greater and illuminating their path. This faith nourishes the soul. It fosters deep bonds with the divine and clarifies one's role in life's grand tapestry.

2. Salvation and Eternal Life: In Christian belief, faith in Jesus is the golden key. This holy incarnation offers the way to salvation and eternal bliss. "Trusting Him unlocks forgiveness for sins and a promise of eternal life."

3. Moral and Ethical Framework: Belief in Jesus as God can provide a moral guide. His teachings form the basis. Many find guidance in His teachings of love, compassion, forgiveness, and justice.

4. For many believers, faith in Jesus builds bridges to a nurturing community. Here, hearts align and spirits soar, connecting souls with common beliefs. In this sanctuary of support, like-minded friendships flourish, and faith deepens.

5. Peace and Comfort: Belief in Jesus as God can provide comfort during difficult times. Many find comfort in prayer. They trust that God knows their struggles and offers strength and peace.

6. Faith ignites change. For some, belief in Jesus sparks a profound shift. His teachings inspire compassion, generosity, and love. Devotees find new purpose, striving to embody these virtues. Their lives change as they embrace His message. It fosters kindness and selflessness in their daily actions.

These benefits are subjective. They vary by beliefs, experiences, and culture. Whether believing Jesus is God's benefit depends on your faith journey. It also depends on your spiritual and philosophical views.

Larissa, a young woman of quiet contemplation, called a hillside village home. Her gentle nature endeared her to neighbors, yet an emptiness gnawed within. Try as she might, no companionship could quench her soul's thirst for connection. Kindness flowed from her, touching lives and leaving her heart yearning for more.

Larissa's heart yearned for meaning. Jesus intrigued her - His words, His deeds. Yet uncertainty plagued her mind. Was He divine, as ancient texts proclaimed? The villagers split. Some swore by Him with deep conviction. Others shrugged Him off as another sage. Caught between skepticism and fascination, Larissa wrestled with her beliefs.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky became a canvas. Hues of gold and pink spilled across the evening backdrop. Larissa strolled toward the village's edge, where a quaint chapel awaited. Though modest, it emanated a serene charm, ivy embracing its weathered stone walls. Years had passed since her last visit, yet an unseen force beckoned her inside tonight.

Silence reigned in the deserted chapel. By the altar, an aged figure hunched, hands intertwined in devotion. Larissa paused, uncertain, then took a tentative step forward.

A murmur escaped her lips, soft as sea foam caressing the shore. "Excuse me," she breathed, her melody floating through the air. Her eyes flitted about, scanning tranquil faces lost in reverie. "I don't mean to disrupt," she added, words as delicate as butterfly wings. Her presence, a ripple in the still waters, threatened to shatter the fragile calm.

The elder's wise eyes shone as he looked up. "Welcome, young one," he said softly. "What brings you here?" His gentle voice invited confidence.

"Why do you believe He's divine?" Her voice wavered, tinged with doubt and curiosity. She sought answers, hoping to unravel the mystery of faith that eluded her grasp.

With eyes sparkling like stars, the elder summoned her near. "Belief!" he exclaimed, "an elusive riddle that dances beyond words. Come closer, and I'll unveil a secret." His voice, a river of ancient wisdom, invited her into a realm of unspoken truths and timeless enigmas.

Hesitating, he shared his spiritual odyssey. Years of doubt and exploration led him to Jesus in sacred texts and personal experience. "I once shared your skepticism," he admitted, "hunting for answers. Christ seemed only human, a wise instructor. Suddenly, a revelation struck. He transcended mortality. My soul, not flesh, found healing. In that transformative instant, I grasped His divinity—God incarnate, walking among us."

Doubt gnawed at Larissa's heart, defying her keen hearing. "I've never seen or felt Him," she whispered, voice quivering like autumn leaves. Her companion's words lingered, challenging lifelong beliefs. She grappled with an invisible deity, as elusive as morning mist in her homeland's valleys. Yet, a stubborn hope persisted. Ancient tales, passed through generations, undoubtedly held truth. The idea of an unseen God tugged at her. It wouldn't let go despite her doubts and protests.

The older man's smile radiated serenity, his voice a soothing balm. "Faith, my dear, lies not in sight but in belief. Jesus proclaimed, 'Blessed are those who have not seen yet still believe.' You'll feel His presence in moments of tranquility, in the hush of your heart."

Larissa sat in a still sea of silence, thoughts swirling like autumn leaves. Her gaze drifted upward to the wooden cross dancing above the altar. Its unadorned yet mighty presence echoed a truth far grander than she had grasped. In that sacred moment, her burdens lightened, replaced by a flicker of hope. She had no answers, but a newfound peace enveloped her. The man's words reverberated within, stirring her spirit. A gentle whisper in her heart urged her to believe that Jesus was as real as the air she breathed. No mere character from dusty pages, He was a living force, eager to embrace her exactly where she stood.

Trust, not certainty, buoyed Larissa's spirit as she departed the chapel. Jesus' divinity remained a mystery, yet His presence felt undeniable. His love resonated in her heart's quiet corners. She embraced the unknown, finding peace in faith's gentle embrace. Answers could wait; for now, His companionship sufficed. Larissa's joy blossomed in the night's hush, nourished by an unseen but ever-present love.

Thus, Larissa embarked on a journey woven with unwavering faith. Her belief in Jesus as God became her steadfast companion, guiding her every step. In moments of doubt, she found solace in His presence. With faith, loneliness and hope blossomed.