Becoming Champions of Faith

"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage
Romans 4:13-5:5

19 And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb. 20 He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, 21 and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. Romans 4:19-21 (NKJV)

Abraham is called the Father of Faith. He serves as an example to us of the life of faith. It is of primary importance that we learn how to operate in faith toward God. Without faith it is impossible to please God (Heb. 6:6). If, however, we move in faith, God is pleased. Scripture says that He is never ashamed of those who trust Him no matter how faltering we may feel in our endeavors to walk this walk (Heb. 6:16).

There are several ingredients of the faith walk which we find in Abraham's story.

1. God required for him to WAIT. Our flesh usually hates to wait. We want answers now! Abraham received God's promise relatively early in life, but had to WAIT until he was an old man to see the fulfillment.

2. Abraham had to face NEGATIVE CIRCUMSTANCES. His body was old! His wife, Sarah, was beyond child-bearing age. It just did not seem possible anymore. God orchestrated the situation to the point that it was impossible by normal standards.

3. Abraham's faith ignited off of God's PROMISE. Just as the promise did not waver, so Abraham did not waver. Abraham's faith was fueled by the contemplation of God's unchanging truth and veracity. By this, he broke out in praise. He grew in the midst of challenge.

4. PERFORMANCE is God's responsibility. Our part is simply to have CONFIDENCE in Him and His character. God does NOT help those who help themselves. He helps those who have full, unwavering confidence in Him.

Learning to live in faith toward God is central to a vibrant relationship with God. We can no longer leave this dimension to the level of being an after-thought, a minor element in our experience, a neglected sidebar. We must become CHAMPIONS OF FAITH.