By Reverend Josh Chigorimbo May 2014
1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. 3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. Hebrews 11:1-3
BIG IDEA: Trusting God produces real benefits for every genuine believer.
INTRODUCTION
True faith is not some fuzzy feeling or some hazy spiritual mumbo jumbo! It is an active attitude that performs and produces real, tangible benefits for every genuine believer. Hebrews 11 sheds brilliant light on this revolutionary subject. Here we just consider seven ways in which authentic faith can function in your and my life.
THE FUNCTIONS:
1. Faith Provides Your Need From God’s Supply.
The expression “things hoped for” refers to our needs, among other things. This text teaches us that faith is the supernatural link between our needs and our true Source–GOD. There is a difference between. Often we are frustrated because we’ve replaced God with our natural sources. But faith recognizes Yahweh as our Source. Resolve to do that this year.
The Psalmist learned this lesson well (Psalm 23). It’s time we also acclaimed Yahweh Rohi as our Shepherd-Provider.
- Because He is my Shepherd, I shall not lack anything!
- Scripture is unequivocal about how God makes me lie down in green pastures. Green pastures refer to abundance and freshness. It’s not God’s will for you to live a dry, poor life!
- It’s also clear that God prepares a table before us in the presence of our enemies.
- Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life! Faith accepts that with childlike faith.
Faith knows that “my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory” (Phil 4:19).
- The location of God’s “warehouse” is significant: “His riches in glory”.
- It’s important for believers to fully understand the infinite resources in God’s Economy.
- We must not confuse our earthly shortages, inflation and recessions with heaven’s economy. There are no such issues in heaven (see Matthew 6:19-20)!
- Now, FAITH connects us with that limitless realm!
Prosperity is NOT a dirty word! There’s nothing spiritual about poverty. Remember Jesus became poor so that we may become rich and He became a curse so we can be blessed (2 Cor. 8:9). We must trust and believe that God loves to and can supply all our needs. We must declare with the psalmist, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want”!