Faith That Overcomes Doubt And Fear Series

FAITH THAT OVERCOMES DOUBT AND FEAR

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 14:22-33

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 11:1, 2 Timothy 1:7, Isaiah 41:10, James 1:6, Mark 9:23-24

INTRODUCTION:

Doubt and fear are two of the most powerful weapons the enemy uses to weaken the believer’s faith. They creep in during moments of uncertainty, storms of life, and when answers to prayers seem delayed. Fear makes us question God’s presence, while doubt makes us question His promises. But God has not called us to live in fear; He calls us to walk by faith.

The story of Peter walking on water is a vivid example of what happens when faith meets fear. Peter had enough faith to step out of the boat, but when he focused on the wind and waves, fear overtook his faith and he began to sink. Still, Jesus reached out and saved him, showing us that even when our faith fails, His love does not.

Today’s message is a divine invitation to strengthen our faith, silence the voice of fear, and overcome every doubt through the power of God’s Word and Spirit.

1. FAITH BEGINS WITH A FIRM FOCUS ON JESUS

True faith is anchored in the person of Jesus Christ. When we fix our eyes on Him, we receive the strength to do the impossible.

a) Faith is strengthened by the Word of Christ (Romans 10:17):

When Jesus said, “Come,” Peter acted on that word. Faith is born and nurtured when we listen to what God says.

b) Fear grows when we shift focus (Matthew 14:30):

The moment Peter looked at the wind and waves, fear replaced his faith. The enemy magnifies problems to distort our vision of God.

c) Jesus never fails those who look to Him (Psalm 34:5):

Those who look to the Lord will never be ashamed. Keeping our eyes on Jesus guarantees divine support.

d) Faith focuses on God’s greatness, not the storm’s power (Isaiah 26:3):

Perfect peace comes to those whose hearts stay fixed on the Lord.

Biblical Example: The woman with the issue of blood focused on Jesus’ power and touched Him by faith, leading to her instant healing (Mark 5:25–34).

2. FAITH DECLARES VICTORY EVEN IN UNCERTAINTY

Faith does not wait for perfect conditions; it declares God’s promises in the midst of adversity.

a) Speak faith-filled words in the face of fear (2 Corinthians 4:13):

We believe and therefore speak. Our confession must agree with God’s Word, not our fears.

b) Refuse to let circumstances define your expectations (Romans 4:20-21):

Like Abraham, we must not stagger at God’s promise through unbelief but be fully persuaded.

c) Faith rejoices before the answer comes (Philippians 4:6):

Rejoicing in advance demonstrates trust in God's ability and willingness to act.

d) God honours bold declarations of faith (Mark 11:23):

When we speak to mountains in faith, they must move. Faith speaks what it believes, not what it sees.

Biblical Example: David declared victory over Goliath before the battle began, and his words aligned with his faith in God (1 Samuel 17:45–47).

3. FAITH HOLDS ON DESPITE DELAYS AND DISAPPOINTMENTS

Genuine faith is not shaken by time or temporary setbacks; it holds on until the promise is fulfilled.

a) Waiting seasons are proving seasons (James 1:3-4):

Faith is tested in the waiting room. Patience perfects us as we trust God’s timing.

b) Delay is not denial (Habakkuk 2:3):

Though the vision tarries, wait for it. God’s promises will come to pass at the appointed time.

c) Doubt enters when we interpret delay as abandonment (John 11:21):

Martha thought Jesus was late, but He was right on time to raise Lazarus.

d) Faith chooses to trust even when feelings disagree (Job 13:15):

Job said, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him.” That is the language of unwavering faith.

Biblical Example: Hannah’s faith persisted through years of barrenness until God answered and gave her Samuel (1 Samuel 1:10–20).

4. FAITH DRAWS STRENGTH FROM GOD’S PRESENCE

Fear loses its power when we are conscious of God’s nearness. Faith is fuelled by the awareness that God is with us.

a) God has not given us a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7):

Fear is not from God. His Spirit empowers us with courage, love, and a sound mind.

b) God’s presence assures us of victory (Isaiah 41:10):

We are not alone. He upholds us with His righteous right hand.

c) Worship invites God’s peace into our hearts (Psalm 23:4):

Even in the valley of the shadow of death, we fear no evil because He is with us.

d) The Holy Spirit strengthens our inner man (Ephesians 3:16):

Faith is not natural; it is a spiritual force that grows when we are rooted in the Spirit.

Biblical Example: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood firm in faith, and God’s presence joined them in the fire (Daniel 3:24–25).