Focus On Faith

Hebrews 11:1 – “Faith is the substance of our hope and the evidence of things we cannot see.”

Introduction

The Eagle and the Storm (Faith Strengthens Us)

Eagles fly directly into storms, using the wind currents to lift them higher above the turbulence. Instead of avoiding challenges, they allow the trial to carry them upward where the air is calm.

Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that “They who wait upon the Lord will “renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles.”

Faith works like this. When we trust and follow God, even trials can elevate us closer to Him.

• Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God—it's what connects us to His promises and guides us through every aspect of life – the good and the bad.

• Today, we’ll explore the necessity of faith, the challenges it faces, and the incredible power faith holds to transform our lives.

• Today we will discover how to better fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, and find encouragement to walk with unwavering trust in His love and power.

I. The Necessity of Faith

Faith is essential for a vibrant spiritual life. Without faith, it is impossible to please God or fully experience His presence and blessings.

A. Faith Pleases God

1. Scripture: Hebrews 11:6 (KJV) – "But without faith it is impossible to please him..."

2. Faith is the foundation upon which our relationship with God is built. It expresses trust in His character and promises.

B. Faith Brings Salvation

1. Scripture: Ephesians 2:8 (KJV) – "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves..."

2. Salvation is a gift received through faith, affirming its indispensable role in our spiritual life.

C. Faith Leads to Righteousness

1. Scripture: Romans 4:3 (KJV) – "For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness."

2. Faith aligns us with God's will, bringing justification and right standing before Him.

II. The Challenges to Faith

Faith often faces trials and tests. Recognizing these helps believers stand firm and grow stronger in their trust in God.

A. Faith is Tested by Trials

1. Scripture: James 1:3 (KJV) – "Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience."

2. Challenges refine and strengthen our faith, producing perseverance and maturity.

B. Faith Battles Doubt

1. Scripture: Mark 9:24 (KJV) – "Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief."

2. Moments of doubt are human, but relying on God deepens faith even in uncertainty.

C. Faith Endures Spiritual Warfare

1. Scripture: Ephesians 6:16 (KJV) – "Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked."

2. Faith serves as a shield, protecting us from fear and discouragement in the face of spiritual opposition.

III. The Power of Faith

Faith has the power to transform lives, move obstacles, and accomplish great things for God's glory.

A. Faith Moves Mountains

1. Scripture: Matthew 17:20 (KJV) – "...If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove."

2. Even a small measure of faith can bring about extraordinary changes.

B. Faith Strengthens the Believer

1. Scripture: Isaiah 40:31 (KJV) – "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength..."

2. Faith empowers us to continue in God's strength when we feel weak or weary.

C. Faith is the Victory that Overcomes the World

1. Scripture: 1 John 5:4 (KJV) – "...this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith."

2. Faith enables us to stand firm against worldly challenges, securing eternal victory through Christ.

Closing

• As we focus on faith, we remember that it is essential, it involves perseverance through challenges, and it holds the power to transform.

• Faith connects us to God, fuels our hope, and empowers us to live as His witnesses in the world.

• Hebrews 12:2 (KJV) exhorts us, "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith..."