Welcome to a journey through faith, where God’s promises light up our path even during the darkest times of our lives. Today, we draw inspiration from a pivotal figure in the Bible: Abraham. His story, especially in Romans 4, is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of unwavering faith.
The Faith of Abraham
Romans 4:18 (NLT) says, “18 Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping—believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have!”
Abraham chose to believe in God’s promise despite his old age and his wife Sarah’s barrenness. This promise was not just about having a child but also about creating nations and establishing a legacy that would endure for generations.
Abraham faced a seemingly impossible situation according to human standards, but he had faith which meant believing in something beyond what we can see or comprehend. This strong trust in God’s word transformed Abraham’s life, not because he was without doubt or fear, but because he chose to believe in spite of them.
What is Faith?
Faith is more than just a feeling; it is an action. It is the decision to trust in God’s promises and to hold onto hope even when the circumstances seem contrary. Faith is not passive; it actively seeks to align with God’s vision, trusting that He will fulfill His promises in His timing.
In Hebrews 11:1, we are taught, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Abraham’s story embodies this definition. He did not see the children or the nations God promised him when the promise was given, yet he believed. His faith was counted to him as righteousness.
How can we, like Abraham, live a life of faith? It begins with hearing the word of God. Romans 10:17 (NLT) states, “So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.” To build our faith, we need to immerse ourselves in the Scriptures, to let the living words of God resonate in our hearts and minds.
But it does not stop with hearing; it must translate into belief and action. James 2:26 (NLT) reminds us, “Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.” Our actions, which are based on our faith, serve as evidence of our belief in the promises of God.
Trials and challenges often seem to contradict God’s promises. You may find yourself facing health issues, financial difficulties, or relationship problems, and wonder where God is in these trials. Yet, these challenges are often the soil in which our faith grows deepest roots.
James 1:2-4 (NIV) 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
The blessing of God follows the faithful, not because we earn His blessings through our faith, but because our faith positions us to receive what God has already freely given. Faith aligns us with God’s will, opening doors to His blessings, which may come as peace in turmoil, joy in sadness, or provision in need.
Remember, God’s timing is perfect. Abraham waited 25 years from the promise to the birth of Isaac. The waiting period, although difficult, is where we grow closer to God and strengthen our faith.
At All Nations Community Church, we stand together, believing in the power of faith. We support each other, pray for one another, and encourage each other to hold fast to the promises of God.
Let us take inspiration from Abraham and step out in faith, holding onto God’s promises. Be encouraged that your faith is never in vain. It is the key to unlocking the fullness of God’s blessings in your life.
Let us pray
Heavenly Father, we come before You today, hearts full of hope, inspired by the faith of Abraham. Lord, help us to cultivate such unwavering faith in our own lives. May we trust in Your promises, knowing that You are faithful to fulfill every word. Strengthen us in our moments of doubt and fortify our spirits in our trials. We thank You for the blessings that follow our faithfulness. In the precious name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.
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