A Journey of Confidence and Conviction
Faith is the cornerstone of our relationship with God. It is a certainty that roots us in His promises. It sustains us through life’s challenges. Hebrews 11:1 captures this idea beautifully. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” This verse conveys the heart of relying on God. It reflects a deep sense of certainty. There is a steadfast faith, even when there are no visible signs to support it.
Faith As Certainty in God’s Promises
To have faith in God is to have certainty about His character and His promises. It is the conviction that our destiny is secure in Him, unaffected by the uncertainties of this world. Trusting in human abilities often leads to disappointment. Relying on worldly possessions or false gods is equally disappointing. They are limited and prone to failure. Yet, God, in His infinite faithfulness, will never fail or abandon us. Faith accepts the truth that what God has spoken is as good as fulfilled. As Hebrews 10:23 reminds us, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.”
Confidence Rewarded
Placing confidence in God alone is not without reward. Hebrews 10:35-36 assures us, “Do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere. When you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.” Faith is not merely passive belief but active perseverance, trusting in God’s timing and His plans. This perseverance is key to experiencing His goodness and blessings in our lives.
Faith in the “Nothing is Happening” Seasons
One of the greatest challenges to our faith arises during seasons where it seems as though nothing is happening. These periods test our ability to stay confident in God’s promises and exercise patience. How do we navigate these times of waiting? The Scriptures offer many examples of individuals who exhibited unwavering faith while waiting on the manifestation of God’s promises.
Heroes of Faith: Lessons from Hebrews
Hebrews 11 offers a remarkable account of individuals who trusted God, despite uncertainties and delays.
- Noah: Warned by God about unseen future events, Noah obeyed and built the ark, saving his household. His actions demonstrated faith in things yet to come and earned him God’s approval (Hebrews 11:7).
- Abraham: Known as the father of faith, Abraham obeyed God’s call to leave his homeland for a promised inheritance. He did not know where he was going. Still, he trusted God. He lived as a stranger in the land he would one day get. This faith sustained him as he waited for the city built by God’s hands (Hebrews 11:8-12).
- Moses: Raised in Pharaoh’s palace, Moses refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to suffer alongside God’s people. He left Egypt without fear of the king’s wrath, persevering as though he can see the invisible God. His faith exemplifies choosing obedience to God over the fleeting pleasures of sin (Hebrews 11:27).
Faith Beyond the Visible
Faith calls us to trust in the unseen. As Peter writes in 1 Peter 1:7-8, “Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.” This trust flourishes even when refined by trials. It produces a faith that results in praise, glory, and honor upon Christ’s revelation.
Victory Through Faith
The saints of old demonstrated that faith leads to triumph. Hebrews 11 recounts their incredible victories: they conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and received God’s promises. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched flames, and escaped the sword’s edge. Yet, their faith remained strong even when they did not get the promise in their lifetime. They knew that God had planned something greater for them and for us (Hebrews 11:39-40).
Faith in Everyday Challenges
Faith in God is essential for navigating life’s challenges—be it family issues, sickness, or financial difficulties. As Philippians 4:19 assures, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” Trust in Him opens the door for His provision and grace to manifest.
Building Strength Through Challenges
Every challenge we face is an opportunity to grow in faith and character. The “nothing is happening” seasons of life strengthen our ability to endure and deepen our trust in God. These moments refine us, preparing us for the fulfillment of His promises.
A Lifestyle of Faith
Faith is not a one-time act but a lifestyle. It is the foundation of our walk with God, for without faith, we can’t please Him (Hebrews 11:6). As believers, we are called to cultivate confident faith, trusting in His ability, His Word, and His timing.
Confident Faith for the Future
As we look ahead, the Scriptures inspire us to stay steadfast in faith. Amos 9:13 declares, “Things are going to happen so fast your head will swim, one thing fast on the heels of the other… everywhere you look, blessings!” God desires His people to have confident faith, knowing that He is faithful to keep His promises. Amos’s message reminds us of Christ’s sacrifice. He died so that all of God’s children, no matter where they are, can be united as one family. The Lord has both the strength and the will to make this happen, inviting everyone who calls on His name. Some of Amos’s words point to the early days of Christianity. They also look ahead to a time when people from every background—Jews and Gentiles—will be united in the church. We should keep praying for these promises to come true, so the church can enjoy peace, purity, and beauty. Even when life is hard, God protects His chosen people, revives the church, and keeps every promise He has made. This gives us hope for a wonderful future together.
Conclusion
Let us embrace a lifestyle of faith, walking confidently in God’s promises and trusting in His perfect plans. Let us persevere in the waiting, knowing that He is working all things for our good. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (Romans 15:13). Faith and assurance in God’s promises pave the way for a life of victory, joy, and abundant blessings.
Blessings,
Minister A Francine Green
December 205
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