In what ways can we strengthen our faith like Abraham did? The Starting Point: Trusting God’s Word Romans 4:3—“For what does the Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.’ ” • Faith grows when we treat God’s promises as settled fact, just as Abraham did the moment God spoke (Genesis 15:6). • Scripture is not advice to evaluate; it is truth to embrace. Listening That Leads to Action • Abraham’s faith showed up in obedience: “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out…” (Hebrews 11:8). • Strengthen faith by acting on what you already know God wants—whether that is forgiving someone, sharing the gospel, or adjusting your priorities. • The more promptly we obey, the more naturally faith becomes our reflex. Waiting with Expectation, Not Resignation • Romans 4:18—“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed…” • Faith matures in the gap between promise and fulfillment. • Use the waiting season to rehearse God’s faithfulness: – Re-read past journal entries or mental “Ebenezers” of answered prayer. – Speak God’s promises aloud (Psalm 119:49–50). – Surround yourself with believers who reinforce hope (Hebrews 10:24–25). Facing Reality While Focusing on God • Romans 4:19—Abraham “faced the fact that his body was as good as dead… yet he did not waver.” • Strengthen faith by: – Acknowledging obstacles honestly; denial is not faith. – Immediately shifting attention to God’s character and power (Jeremiah 32:17). – Repeating truths like Ephesians 3:20—He “is able to do exceeding abundantly.” Giving Glory Before You See the Outcome • Romans 4:20—“He grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God.” • Praise fuels faith. Make gratitude a discipline: – Thank God daily for who He is, not just what He does. – Sing or speak worship even when feelings lag behind (Psalm 42:5). Guarding the Mind Against Unbelief • Romans 12:2—renew your mind; doubt often begins with drift in thinking. • Practical habits: – Memorize key promises (Isaiah 41:10; Philippians 4:19). – Filter media and conversations that breed cynicism. – Replace “What if it doesn’t happen?” with “Since God has spoken…” Passing the Test of Time • Hebrews 6:12—imitate “those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” • Faith like Abraham’s proves itself over decades, not days. • Evaluate progress by long-term faithfulness, not short-term feelings. Living the Credited Life • James 2:23 calls Abraham “the friend of God.” • The same righteousness credited to him is credited to everyone who believes in Jesus (Romans 4:23–24). • Daily choose to live from that credited status—confident, obedient, expectant—so your faith keeps strengthening just as his did. |
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