Triumphing Through Faith: Embracing Divine Approval
Summary
Faith is a powerful force that enables us to triumph over life's challenges. Throughout the Bible, we see numerous examples of individuals who chose to trust God above all else—above their own understanding, above the opinions of others, and above their circumstances. This choice to live by faith rather than sight brings about divine approval, which is the ultimate form of success. It is important to understand that divine approval does not equate to a life free of problems. On the contrary, life on Earth is filled with ups and downs. However, the assurance of God's approval provides a sense of victory and fulfillment that transcends our earthly struggles.
The essence of living a life of faith is to seek God's approval by trusting Him, even when it seems difficult. This divine approval is not just a pat on the back; it is the highest form of validation one can receive. It signifies that you are on the right path, regardless of how tumultuous the journey may be. The call to walk by faith and not by sight is a call to be among those who are recognized by God for their unwavering trust in Him. This recognition is not just about feeling good; it is about being aligned with God's will and purpose for your life.
In a world where circumstances can often be overwhelming, choosing faith is a declaration that God's promises are more real than the challenges we face. It is an invitation to experience a life that is not defined by the absence of problems but by the presence of divine approval. This approval is a testament to a life well-lived, a life that echoes the faith of those who have gone before us and have been commended by God.
Key Takeaways
- Faith is about trusting God above all else, even when circumstances are challenging. This trust leads to divine approval, which is the ultimate form of success. It is not about having a problem-free life but about having God's validation in the midst of life's ups and downs. [00:43]
- Divine approval is the highest form of validation one can receive. It signifies that you are on the right path, regardless of how tumultuous the journey may be. This approval is a testament to a life well-lived and aligned with God's will. [01:14]
- Walking by faith and not by sight is a call to be among those recognized by God for their unwavering trust in Him. This recognition is not just about feeling good; it is about being aligned with God's purpose for your life. [00:43]
- Choosing faith is a declaration that God's promises are more real than the challenges we face. It is an invitation to experience a life defined by divine approval rather than the absence of problems. [01:14]
- The assurance of God's approval provides a sense of victory and fulfillment that transcends our earthly struggles. It is a powerful force that enables us to triumph over life's challenges and be part of those commended by God. [00:43]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:43] - Triumph Through Faith
[01:14] - Divine Approval
[01:45] - Life's Ups and Downs
[02:10] - Walking by Faith
[02:35] - Trusting God Above All
[03:00] - The Highest Validation
[03:25] - Aligning with God's Will
[03:50] - Declaring God's Promises
[04:15] - Experiencing Fulfillment
[04:40] - Being Commended by God
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 11:1-2 - "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for."
2. 2 Corinthians 5:7 - "For we live by faith, not by sight."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does the sermon suggest is the ultimate form of success in life? [00:43]
2. How does the sermon describe the relationship between faith and divine approval? [01:14]
3. According to the sermon, what does divine approval signify about one's life path? [01:14]
4. What does the sermon say about the nature of life on Earth for those who live by faith? [01:14]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of "walking by faith, not by sight" challenge the way individuals typically approach life's challenges? [01:14]
2. In what ways does divine approval provide a sense of victory and fulfillment, according to the sermon? [01:14]
3. How might the assurance of God's approval change one's perspective on life's ups and downs? [01:14]
4. What does it mean to be aligned with God's will and purpose, as discussed in the sermon? [01:14]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. How might choosing faith over sight have changed your approach or outcome? [01:14]
2. Can you identify a situation where you sought approval from others rather than divine approval? How did that affect your decision-making? [01:14]
3. What are some practical steps you can take to align your life more closely with God's will and purpose? [01:14]
4. Think of a time when you felt overwhelmed by circumstances. How can the assurance of God's approval provide comfort in similar situations? [01:14]
5. How can you remind yourself daily that God's promises are more real than the challenges you face? [01:14]
6. Identify one area of your life where you struggle to trust God fully. What is one action you can take this week to demonstrate your faith in that area? [01:14]
7. How can you encourage others in your community to walk by faith and seek divine approval in their lives? [01:14]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting God in Challenging Circumstances
Faith is about trusting God above all else, even when circumstances are challenging. This trust leads to divine approval, which is the ultimate form of success. It is not about having a problem-free life but about having God's validation in the midst of life's ups and downs. [00:43]
In life, challenges are inevitable, and they often test the very core of our faith. Trusting God in these moments is not about ignoring the reality of our circumstances but about choosing to believe that God's promises are more real and enduring than the challenges we face. This kind of faith is not passive; it requires an active decision to place God's wisdom and plans above our own understanding. When we do this, we align ourselves with a higher purpose and receive divine approval, which is the ultimate form of success. This approval is not a guarantee of a life without problems but a testament to a life lived in alignment with God's will.
In the Bible, we see numerous examples of individuals who chose to trust God above all else. Their stories remind us that divine approval is not about the absence of struggles but about the presence of God's validation in our lives. This validation provides a sense of victory and fulfillment that transcends our earthly struggles, enabling us to triumph over life's challenges.
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."
Reflection: What is one specific challenge you are facing today where you need to trust God more than your own understanding? How can you actively choose to place your faith in His promises?
Day 2: The Highest Form of Validation
Divine approval is the highest form of validation one can receive. It signifies that you are on the right path, regardless of how tumultuous the journey may be. This approval is a testament to a life well-lived and aligned with God's will. [01:14]
In a world that often measures success by external achievements and accolades, divine approval stands as the highest form of validation. It is not about the recognition of others but about being recognized by God for living a life aligned with His will. This kind of validation is not fleeting; it is eternal and signifies that you are on the right path, even when the journey is tumultuous.
Living for divine approval means seeking to please God above all else. It requires a heart that is willing to follow His guidance, even when it contradicts popular opinion or personal desires. This approval is a testament to a life well-lived, one that echoes the faith of those who have gone before us and have been commended by God. It is a validation that brings peace and fulfillment, knowing that you are living in accordance with God's purpose for your life.
1 Thessalonians 2:4 (ESV): "But just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts."
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you seeking validation from others instead of God? How can you shift your focus to seek divine approval as your highest form of validation?
Day 3: Walking by Faith, Not by Sight
Walking by faith and not by sight is a call to be among those recognized by God for their unwavering trust in Him. This recognition is not just about feeling good; it is about being aligned with God's purpose for your life. [00:43]
Walking by faith and not by sight is a profound call to trust in God's promises, even when they are not immediately visible. It is an invitation to live a life that is not dictated by circumstances but by the assurance of God's faithfulness. This kind of faith requires a deep trust in God's character and His plans, even when they are not fully understood.
Being recognized by God for unwavering trust is not about seeking a feel-good experience; it is about aligning your life with His purpose. This alignment brings a sense of peace and direction, knowing that you are living in accordance with His will. It is a call to be among those who have been commended by God for their faith, a recognition that transcends earthly accolades and brings eternal significance.
2 Corinthians 5:7 (ESV): "For we walk by faith, not by sight."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are struggling to walk by faith? How can you take a step today to trust in God's promises, even when they are not visible?
Day 4: Declaring God's Promises Over Challenges
Choosing faith is a declaration that God's promises are more real than the challenges we face. It is an invitation to experience a life defined by divine approval rather than the absence of problems. [01:14]
In the face of life's challenges, choosing faith is a powerful declaration that God's promises are more real and enduring than any obstacle. This choice is not about denying the reality of difficulties but about affirming the greater reality of God's faithfulness and His promises. It is an invitation to experience a life that is not defined by the absence of problems but by the presence of divine approval.
Declaring God's promises over challenges is an act of faith that aligns your heart and mind with His truth. It is a reminder that His promises are sure and that His plans for you are good. This declaration is not just about positive thinking; it is about standing on the solid foundation of God's Word and trusting in His character. It is an invitation to live a life that echoes the faith of those who have gone before us and have been commended by God.
Isaiah 55:11 (ESV): "So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it."
Reflection: What is one promise from God that you need to declare over a specific challenge in your life today? How can you remind yourself of this promise throughout the day?
Day 5: Assurance of Victory and Fulfillment
The assurance of God's approval provides a sense of victory and fulfillment that transcends our earthly struggles. It is a powerful force that enables us to triumph over life's challenges and be part of those commended by God. [00:43]
The assurance of God's approval is a powerful force that brings victory and fulfillment, even in the midst of life's struggles. This assurance is not about the absence of challenges but about the presence of God's validation and the peace that comes from knowing you are living in alignment with His will. It is a reminder that true success is not measured by earthly standards but by the commendation of God.
This assurance enables you to triumph over life's challenges, knowing that you are part of those who have been commended by God for their faith. It is a testament to a life well-lived, one that is marked by unwavering trust in God's promises and a commitment to His purpose. This assurance brings a sense of fulfillment that transcends earthly struggles, providing a deep sense of peace and joy in the journey of faith.
James 1:12 (ESV): "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."
Reflection: How does the assurance of God's approval change your perspective on a current struggle you are facing? What steps can you take to live in alignment with His will today?
Quotes
"The Bible abounds with people who triumph through faith, a whole litany of people who decided to trust God over themselves, over other people, and over their circumstances. The beauty of faith's triumph is that you get divine approval. It doesn't mean everything goes smoothly, but it says of all the others who are people of faith that they triumph because they got a divine 'okay.' They got a God's stamp of approval. And when you get the highest approval possible in creation then that means you are victorious and you are successful, regardless of how the circumstances are at any given moment." [00:00:18]
"I wish I could tell you that a life of faith means a problemless life, but that's not the world in which we live. That's heaven. On Earth, there gonna be ups and downs, but you still can be approved—where God says you did it. And there's nothing that will make you feel better or be better than the divine approval of God." [00:01:04]
"So let's get divine approval because we're going to believe him even when believing him is the last thing we want to believe. Walk by faith, not by sight, so that you can be part of the others who are approved by God." [00:01:31]
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