Explore the coexistence of faith and doubt, and to reassure believers that even in moments of unbelief, we can turn to Jesus for hope and help.
Good morning, church family! Today, we're going to dive into a message that's as relevant today as it was over 2,000 years ago when it was first spoken. We're going to talk about faith, doubt, and the hope we have in Jesus.
We're gonna draw our inspiration from Mark 9:24,
“Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'”
This passage is powerful because it's raw and real. It shows us that even in our struggles with doubt, faith can still be present.
As Elisabeth Elliot once wrote, "Faith does not eliminate questions. But faith knows where to take them."
So, for those of us wrestling with questions, battling unbelief, or feeling like our faith is just a little too small, let's remember that we're in good company. And more importantly, let's remember that Jesus is our hope and our help.
The power of faith is a concept that is both profound and transformative. It is the cornerstone of our Christian journey, the fuel that propels us forward, and the anchor that holds us steady in the face of life's storms.
Faith is not just a passive belief in the existence of God; it is an active trust in His character, His promises, and His plan for our lives.
It changes our perspective: It allows us to see beyond our current circumstances and to focus on the eternal. When we view life through the lens of faith, we are not swayed by the changing tides of fortune or the shifting sands of popular opinion. Instead, we are grounded in the unchanging truth of God's word. We see the world not as it is, but as God intends it to be. This perspective gives us hope in the midst of despair, peace in the midst of turmoil, and joy in the midst of sorrow.
Its ability to move mountains: Jesus said in Matthew 17:20, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." This is not a promise of physical prowess but of spiritual strength. When we have faith, we are able to overcome obstacles and challenges that would otherwise seem insurmountable. We are able to do this not because of our own strength, but because of the power of God working in us and through us.
It empowers us to live boldly for Christ: When we truly believe in the promises of God, we are not afraid to step out in faith and follow where He leads. We are not deterred by the potential risks or the possible consequences. Instead, we are motivated by the potential rewards and the eternal significance of our actions. This boldness is not a reckless disregard for danger, but a courageous confidence in the protection and provision of God.
It connects us to God: It is the means by which we enter into a relationship with Him and experience His presence in our lives. Through faith, we are able to access the grace of God, receive the forgiveness of sins, and enjoy the peace that surpasses all understanding. Faith is not just about believing in God, but about experiencing God. It is about knowing Him intimately and personally, and allowing Him to transform us from the inside out.
It’s transformative: It changes us. It shapes our character, informs our decisions, and influences our actions. When we have faith, we are not the same people we were before. We are reborn, renewed, and recreated in the image of Christ. This transformation is not a one-time event, but a lifelong process. It is a journey of growth, discovery, and becoming more like Christ.
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