Weekly Word of Faith 05: Faith Doesn’t Make Things Easy – It Makes Them Possible
This week’s scripture: Matthew 19:26 – “Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
As believers, we often hear that having faith can move mountains, but what does that truly mean? Faith isn’t a magic wand that eliminates difficulties or challenges; instead, it’s a steadfast belief that enables us to navigate through life’s obstacles with the assurance that God is in control. When we understand that faith doesn’t make things easy, we begin to realize that it makes everything possible.
The Nature of Faith
Faith is defined as the complete trust or confidence in someone or something. In the Christian context, it is our unwavering trust in God’s promises, character, and plan for our lives. Hebrews 11:1 describes faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This faith isn’t blind; it’s rooted in our relationship with God and His faithfulness throughout history. When we place our faith in God, we align ourselves with His purpose and trust in His perfect plan.
Why Life is Often Difficult
Life is filled with trials, tribulations, and uncertainties. Jesus Himself warned us, “In this world, you will have trouble” (John 16:33). The challenges we face can be overwhelming, but faith provides a new lens through which to view these challenges. Instead of being paralyzed by fear or despair, faith allows us to move forward, knowing that God is working in and through our circumstances.
Consider the story of the Israelites as they faced the Red Sea. They stood at the edge of an impossible situation, with the sea before them and the Egyptian army behind them. But through Moses, God parted the waters, demonstrating that what seemed impossible was entirely possible with faith in Him. This story serves as a reminder that God often works miracles in our lives when we put our trust in Him.
The Power of Faith in Difficult Times
Faith can transform our perspective during difficult times. It shifts our focus from the problem to the problem-solver. Think of David facing Goliath. David didn’t see a giant that was too big to defeat; he saw an opportunity for God’s power to be displayed. Armed with nothing but a slingshot and unwavering confidence in God’s ability to deliver, David declared, “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47). His faith led to a victory that inspired a nation.
When we face our own Goliaths—be it health challenges, financial struggles, or relational conflicts—we can draw strength from David’s story. Our faith empowers us to confront these challenges head-on, believing that God is capable of making the impossible possible.
Practical Ways to Strengthen Your Faith
1.Pray Boldly
Prayer is our lifeline to God. When faced with impossible situations, approach God boldly in prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to present our requests to God and to trust in His peace that surpasses all understanding. Bold prayers demonstrate our faith in God’s ability to intervene in our circumstances.
2.Surround Yourself with Faithful Believers
Community is vital in strengthening our faith. Surround yourself with those who encourage and uplift you in your walk with Christ. They can remind you of God’s promises during times of doubt and struggle. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us that two are better than one, for they can help each other succeed.
3.Dive into the Word
God’s Word is filled with promises and testimonies of faith that can inspire and encourage us. Meditate on scriptures that speak to your situation, and let them be a source of strength. Knowing the Scriptures equips us to stand firm against doubt and fear.
4.Take Steps of Faith
When we act on our faith, we see God work in powerful ways. Whether it’s serving others, pursuing a dream, or sharing your faith, take steps that reflect your belief in God’s promises. James 2:17 reminds us that faith without works is dead. By stepping out in faith, we activate God’s power in our lives.
Biblical Examples of Faith Making the Impossible Possible
•Abraham and Sarah: They were well beyond childbearing age when God promised them a son. Their faith in God’s promise led to the miraculous birth of Isaac, showing that what seems impossible is possible with God. Their story illustrates that God’s timing may not align with our own, but His promises are faithful.
•The Woman with the Issue of Blood: For twelve years, she suffered from a condition that left her isolated and hopeless. Yet, with faith, she reached out to touch Jesus’ garment, believing she would be healed. Her faith made the impossible possible (Mark 5:34). This encounter teaches us that a single act of faith can lead to profound transformation.
•The Blind Man at Jericho: When he heard that Jesus was passing by, he cried out for mercy despite being rebuked by the crowd. His unwavering faith in Jesus’ ability to heal him resulted in restored sight (Mark 10:52). This story encourages us to persist in our faith, even when faced with opposition.
Living a Life of Faith
Faith doesn’t eliminate our challenges; it empowers us to face them head-on. It’s the assurance that God is with us in every situation, guiding us, strengthening us, and providing what we need to move forward. When we walk in faith, we are assured that God is capable of working miracles in our lives. Remember that with God, all things are possible.
Faith is a journey, and like any journey, it requires patience and perseverance. There will be moments of doubt, but those are opportunities to deepen our trust in God.
Reflection
Think of an area in your life where you feel overwhelmed or discouraged. How can you apply faith to that situation? Spend time in prayer, asking God to help you trust Him in the midst of difficulties. What is one step you can take this week to actively exercise your faith?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of faith that enables us to trust You even when circumstances seem impossible. Help us to lean on You and to see beyond our challenges. May our faith grow stronger as we navigate through life’s trials, knowing that with You, all things are possible. Teach us to act boldly on our faith, and remind us that You are always working for our good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.