In what ways can we trust God's promises in our lives today? Setting the Stage: Acts 7:17 “As the time drew near for God to fulfill His promise to Abraham, the population of our people in Egypt increased and multiplied.” God’s Faithfulness Spans Generations • Genesis 15:13–14 — centuries earlier, God told Abraham about the Egyptian sojourn and the Exodus. • Exodus 12:40–41 — precisely at the end of 430 years, “all the LORD’s divisions” left Egypt. • Joshua 21:45 — “Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed.” • 1 Kings 8:56 — Solomon looks back and says the same. • Hebrews 10:23 — “He who promised is faithful.” • 2 Corinthians 1:20 — every promise finds its “Yes” in Jesus. Why We Can Trust His Promises Today 1. His character is unchanging (Malachi 3:6; James 1:17). 2. His power is unlimited (Jeremiah 32:17). 3. His word is truth (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2). 4. Christ guarantees every promise (2 Corinthians 1:20). 5. The Spirit is the down payment securing future fulfillment (Ephesians 1:13–14). Living Between Promise and Fulfillment • Israel waited four centuries; God was never late. • We often stand in the middle—redeemed yet still awaiting final restoration (Romans 8:23). • Delay is not denial; it is space for God’s larger purposes and our growth. Practical Expressions of Trust Today • Wait patiently, knowing timing belongs to Him (Psalm 37:7). • Pray expectantly; prayer aligns us with His schedule (Philippians 4:6–7). • Obey in advance, acting as though the promise is already on the way (Hebrews 11:7). • Anchor every hope in Scripture by memorizing and meditating (Psalm 119:49–50). • Testify to others; shared stories reinforce trust (Psalm 9:1). Promises That Sustain Us • His presence: “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • His provision: “My God will supply all your needs” (Philippians 4:19). • His guidance: “He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5–6). • His victory: “We are more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37–39). • His future home: “I will come again and receive you to Myself” (John 14:3; Revelation 21:3–4). Takeaway Truths • Every promise carries God’s integrity; doubt the circumstances, never His word. • Fulfillment may be gradual, but it is certain. • Trust grows by remembering past faithfulness, rehearsing present promises, and resting in future hope. |