Faith: Trusting God Through Imperfections and Challenges
Summary
### Summary
This week, we are gearing up for Vacation Bible School (VBS), a time when we have the opportunity to impact the lives of 140 children and their families. Our theme is superheroes, and it serves as a great metaphor for the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11. These biblical figures, despite their flaws and failures, are celebrated for their faith in God. They remind us that God can work through anyone, no matter how imperfect.
Faith is a central theme in the Bible, and it is not just about believing in God for salvation but also about living a life that continually trusts and obeys Him. Faith involves believing before seeing, obeying even when we don't understand, giving when we don't have it, enduring when we don't feel like it, and trusting even when disappointed. These principles are not just theoretical; they are practical steps that can transform our lives.
We also discussed how faith is not about having a perfect life but about trusting God through the imperfections and challenges. The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 had significant flaws, yet they are remembered for their faith. This should encourage us that God can use us despite our shortcomings.
Faith is also about persistence. Like Joseph, who endured many hardships but remained faithful, we too must persist in our faith even when life is tough. Our culture often tells us to follow our feelings, but true faith is about commitment and persistence, regardless of how we feel.
Finally, faith is about trusting God even when we are disappointed. God is not a vending machine that gives us everything we want. Sometimes His answers to our prayers are "no" or "not yet," and we must trust that He knows what is best for us. The ultimate example of faith is Jesus Christ, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. We are called to model our lives after Him, focusing on the joy that is set before us—eternal life with Christ.
### Key Takeaways
1. Faith is Believing Before Seeing: Faith involves visualizing the future in the present and being certain of what we do not see. This principle is exemplified by Abraham, who obeyed God's call to go to an unknown land, trusting in God's promise. Faith turns dreams into reality by believing in possibilities before they manifest. [41:58]
2. Faith is Obeying Even When It Doesn't Make Sense: Noah's obedience in building the ark, despite never having seen rain, is a powerful example of faith. Obeying God often requires us to act against our understanding and logic, trusting that His ways are higher than ours. This kind of faith is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. [43:29]
3. Faith is Giving When You Don't Have It: Abel's offering to God, given in faith, was more acceptable than Cain's because it was given with the right attitude. True faith involves trusting God with our resources, even when it seems impractical. This kind of giving is blessed by God and is a test of our trust in Him. [52:32]
4. Faith is Enduring When You Don't Feel Like It: Joseph's life is a testament to enduring faith. Despite being sold into slavery and imprisoned, he remained faithful to God. Mature faith is about commitment and persistence, not being swayed by our emotions or circumstances. This endurance builds character and spiritual strength. [55:42]
5. Faith is Trusting Even When Disappointed: Sometimes God doesn't answer our prayers the way we want. Faith means trusting that God's plans are better than our own, even when we face disappointments. The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 did not receive all that was promised in their lifetimes, yet they trusted in God's ultimate plan. [01:04:38]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[21:38] - Introduction to VBS Week
[22:43] - Men's Breakfast and Senior Event Announcements
[24:04] - VBS Preparations and Prayer Requests
[25:21] - Multi-Generational Impact of VBS
[26:35] - Offering and Luke 1:37
[29:09] - Superheroes and Faith
[30:35] - Superman vs. Batman
[33:03] - Heroes of Faith in Hebrews 11
[36:54] - Flaws of Biblical Heroes
[38:32] - Faith Beyond Salvation
[41:58] - Believing Before Seeing
[43:29] - Obeying Without Understanding
[52:32] - Giving in Faith
[55:42] - Enduring Through Hardships
[01:04:38] - Trusting Despite Disappointments
[01:07:53] - Modeling After Jesus Christ
[01:08:58] - Closing Prayer and Call to Action
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 11:1-2 (ESV) - "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation."
2. Hebrews 11:6 (ESV) - "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him."
3. Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV) - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
### Observation Questions
1. What are some of the key characteristics of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11:1-2?
2. According to Hebrews 11:6, what are the two essential components of faith that please God?
3. In the sermon, what examples were given to illustrate "Faith is Believing Before Seeing"? ([41:58])
4. How did the sermon describe the persistence of Joseph's faith despite his hardships? ([55:42])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of faith in Hebrews 11:1-2 challenge the common saying, "I'll believe it when I see it"? ([41:58])
2. What does it mean to "run with endurance the race that is set before us" as described in Hebrews 12:1-2, and how can this be applied to our daily lives? ([01:06:22])
3. The sermon mentioned that faith involves trusting God even when disappointed. How does this align with the experiences of the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11? ([01:04:38])
4. How does the example of Jesus enduring the cross for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2) serve as a model for our own faith journey? ([01:06:53])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to believe in something before seeing it. How did that experience shape your faith? ([41:58])
2. Think about a situation where you had to obey God even when it didn't make sense. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from it? ([43:29])
3. Are there areas in your life where you find it difficult to give, whether it be time, resources, or love? How can you practice giving in faith this week? ([52:32])
4. When you face hardships, how do you usually respond? What steps can you take to develop a more enduring faith like Joseph's? ([55:42])
5. Have you ever felt disappointed by God's response to your prayers? How can you cultivate trust in God's plan even when His answers are "no" or "not yet"? ([01:04:38])
6. Identify one specific way you can model your life after Jesus this week, focusing on the joy set before you. How can this perspective change your approach to daily challenges? ([01:06:53])
7. Is there a particular "weight" or "sin" that is hindering your faith journey? What practical steps can you take to lay it aside and run with endurance? ([01:06:22])
Devotional
Day 1: Faith is Visualizing the Future in the Present
Faith involves visualizing the future in the present and being certain of what we do not see. This principle is exemplified by Abraham, who obeyed God's call to go to an unknown land, trusting in God's promise. Faith turns dreams into reality by believing in possibilities before they manifest. Abraham's journey was not without its challenges, but his unwavering belief in God's promises allowed him to move forward despite the uncertainties. This kind of faith requires us to trust in God's vision for our lives, even when we cannot see the full picture.
In our daily lives, we are often faced with situations that require us to step out in faith. Whether it's a new job, a move to a new city, or a challenging relationship, faith calls us to trust in God's plan and provision. By believing before seeing, we align ourselves with God's will and open the door for His blessings to flow into our lives. This kind of faith is not passive but active, requiring us to take steps forward even when the path is unclear. [41:58]
Hebrews 11:8 (ESV): "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going."
Reflection: Think of a situation in your life where you need to step out in faith. What is one practical step you can take today to move forward, trusting in God's promise?
Day 2: Faith is Obeying Without Understanding
Noah's obedience in building the ark, despite never having seen rain, is a powerful example of faith. Obeying God often requires us to act against our understanding and logic, trusting that His ways are higher than ours. This kind of faith is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. Noah's faith was not based on what he could see or understand but on his trust in God's word. His obedience saved his family and preserved humanity, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of faithful obedience.
In our own lives, we may encounter situations where God's instructions seem illogical or difficult to understand. It is in these moments that our faith is truly tested. Obeying without understanding means trusting that God's wisdom surpasses our own and that His plans are for our good. This kind of faith requires humility and a willingness to submit to God's authority, even when it challenges our own reasoning. [43:29]
Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV): "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you are struggling to obey God because it doesn't make sense to you? How can you surrender your understanding and trust in His higher wisdom today?
Day 3: Faith is Trusting God with Our Resources
Abel's offering to God, given in faith, was more acceptable than Cain's because it was given with the right attitude. True faith involves trusting God with our resources, even when it seems impractical. This kind of giving is blessed by God and is a test of our trust in Him. Abel's faith was demonstrated through his willingness to give his best to God, trusting that God would provide for his needs. His offering was a reflection of his heart and his trust in God's provision.
In our own lives, we are called to trust God with our resources, whether it be our time, talents, or finances. Giving in faith means recognizing that everything we have comes from God and that He is our ultimate provider. It requires us to let go of our fears and insecurities and to trust that God will meet our needs as we honor Him with our resources. This kind of faith is not about the amount we give but the heart with which we give. [52:32]
2 Corinthians 9:7-8 (ESV): "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find it difficult to trust God with your resources? How can you take a step of faith today to give generously, trusting in God's provision?
Day 4: Faith is Enduring Through Hardships
Joseph's life is a testament to enduring faith. Despite being sold into slavery and imprisoned, he remained faithful to God. Mature faith is about commitment and persistence, not being swayed by our emotions or circumstances. This endurance builds character and spiritual strength. Joseph's faith was not dependent on his circumstances but on his unwavering trust in God's plan for his life. His endurance through hardships ultimately led to his elevation and the fulfillment of God's promises.
In our own lives, we will face trials and challenges that test our faith. Enduring through hardships means holding on to our faith even when it is difficult, trusting that God is with us and that He is working all things for our good. This kind of faith requires perseverance and a steadfast commitment to God, regardless of our feelings or external circumstances. It is through enduring faith that we grow stronger and more resilient in our walk with God. [55:42]
James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Reflection: Think of a recent hardship you have faced or are currently facing. How can you choose to endure in faith, trusting that God is using this trial to strengthen and grow you?
Day 5: Faith is Trusting God's Plan Despite Disappointments
Sometimes God doesn't answer our prayers the way we want. Faith means trusting that God's plans are better than our own, even when we face disappointments. The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 did not receive all that was promised in their lifetimes, yet they trusted in God's ultimate plan. Their faith was not based on immediate results but on the assurance of God's faithfulness and the hope of His promises.
In our own lives, we may experience disappointments and unanswered prayers. Trusting God's plan despite these disappointments means believing that He knows what is best for us and that His timing is perfect. It requires us to let go of our expectations and to trust that God's ways are higher than ours. This kind of faith is rooted in a deep relationship with God and a confident hope in His promises. [01:04:38]
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent disappointment or unanswered prayer in your life. How can you choose to trust in God's plan and timing, believing that He knows what is best for you?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "Faith is believing before I see it. Faith is visualizing, visualizing the future in the present. It's seeing in advance. It's being certain of that which we do not see. Have you heard the phrase before, I'll believe it when I see it? Well, God says, look, you have to believe it, and then you will see it." [40:33] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Faith is giving when I don't have it. Giving and faith go together. God uses our finances to test our faith. In fact, this week we have many VBS volunteers who are giving time that they don't have. Giving time over to be able to reach children and families with the gospel." [51:25] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Faith is trusting even when disappointed. Some people try to make God out like a vending machine. That you pray, you ask, and he'll automatically give you whatever you want. But God is no vending machine. Vending machines often give you things that you don't need, and they'll often give you things that will kill you. God will never give you something that is bad for you." [01:01:26] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Faith is being persistent. Faith is refusing to give up. Faith is doing the right thing even when you're tired, even when you're moody. And I know in a group this size, some of you are at a quitting point right now. Some of you feel like you're going to give up on your marriage or you want to give up on school because it just seems too hard." [58:41] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Faith is obeying even when I don't understand it, when it doesn't make any sense. Noah had probably all types of questions and doubts, but he was obeying. Because what he was preparing for had never happened before. See, before the flood, it never rained. The earth was watered through like a mist that came up from the ground, like a dew in the morning, condensation." [43:29] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "These men and women, they found their place in God's story, not because they were perfect, not because they were flawless, but because, to the best of their abilities, in the midst of circumstances, they acted in faith. And they are commended for these acts." [36:54] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Faith is believing before I see it, obeying even when I don't understand, giving when I don't have it, enduring when I don't feel like it, and trusting even when disappointed. Now, faith is believing before I see it." [40:33] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God wants you to believe when you don't see it. God wants you to obey when you don't understand it. There's over a thousand promises in the New Testament alone. And essentially, he says, do this and you'll be blessed. And every time God tells you to do something, it's a test. Who am I going to believe? God or me?" [45:02] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Faith is giving when I don't have it. Giving and faith go together. God uses our finances to test our faith. In fact, this week we have many VBS volunteers who are giving time that they don't have. Giving time over to be able to reach children and families with the gospel." [51:25] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Faith is being persistent. Faith is refusing to give up. Faith is doing the right thing even when you're tired, even when you're moody. And I know in a group this size, some of you are at a quitting point right now. Some of you feel like you're going to give up on your marriage or you want to give up on school because it just seems too hard." [58:41] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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