FAITH"Something that is believed especially with strong conviction"
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If you were to ask me to tell you my testimony, my story would begin after I accepted Christ. Seems like an odd place to begin, right? After all usually a testimony leads up to that moment when authentic belief begins and God radically transforms a life because of that decision. But the truth is that I can’t remember a time when God was not a part of my life. However, as I’ve gotten older I have realized that faith is not just a one time decision. Someone’s true faith story is found in their daily choice to continue to believe and trust God despite whatever life circumstances they find themselves in. It is an active, constantly growing relationship with our Creator.
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THEOLOGY"The study of the nature of God and religious belief"
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Over the years, I have been impressed with the number of ways the study of Christianity and faith can be approached. I'm convinced that good theology should be more than just an academic or philosophical exercise. It should impact our hearts, should challenge us to let God outside the box we stuff him in and to consider how what we believe in one area affects our beliefs in another.
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WORLD RELIGION"Branch of comparative religion which is concerned with the systematic comparison of the doctrines and practices of the world's religions"
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Who knew studying other religions could lead someone to appreciate their own all the more? I've had the opportunity to watch a Hindu service, attend service at a mosque, and interact with individuals who believe in a variety of religions. I'll admit that world religions was not my favorite subject in school, but it did reveal I had some misconceptions about other major religions. If you've never had a chance to interact personally and intimately with people of other faiths, definitely make it a priority.
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