How Sure is your Faith?

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for” (Hebrews 11:1).

If God decided to induct more believers into the Faith Hall of Fame, as found in Hebrews 11, would you be one of the nominees? Would you be able to join Noah, Abraham, Moses et al?

After over three months on the housing market, I’m not sure I’d qualify. While I know we are supposed to sell our house for a myriad of reasons, I find myself thinking I’m not sure we’re ever going to sell it. What will we do if we don’t?

Do you have a situation where you have lost hope? Is your faith waning?

But then on Sunday a visiting preacher reminded us that God desires praise for his provision even before he provides.

“Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”

Is that a concept you struggle with as well?

In Proverbs 21:1 it says, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.”

So if we trust the Word and believe the LORD can direct the heart of kings, why couldn’t he direct a buyer to my house or someone to remedy whatever scenario you find yourself in?

He wants us to praise him for working it out before it’s worked out.

Before the web untangles.

Before the prodigal son comes home.

Before the sibling is free of addiction.

Before the financial crisis is over.

Why should we praise him in advance of a solution?

Because HE is able.

So on wobbly legs, I am trying to thank God for the provision of a buyer for this house before I see one on the horizon. I have to trust there is a reason why our house has not sold.

What do you need to thank him for?

A current worship song reminds us that God is a “good, good Father. That’s who he is.” Do you believe God loves you like a dad and wants the best for you?

There are many passages that speak about the goodness of God but this one in Matthew seems to fit the message for today: “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:9-11)

So will you join me in praising a good Father for the good gifts that we do not see yet? Will you thank him for his provision before the provision arrives on your doorstep?

Today, let’s be certain of what we do not see.