November 26, 2024
"For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith"
- 1 John 5:4 NKJV
Faith is not primarily about getting what we want from God; it is God’s tool for shaping us into the image of Christ. God’s ultimate plan for humanity is that we all resemble Jesus, the Son in whom the Father is well pleased. This truth is reinforced in Hebrews 11:6, which states that without faith, no one can please God. Jesus is the Son who willingly walked in obedience, even unto death.
Furthermore, faith is not merely about seeing results; it is about trusting in God’s faithfulness, even when the outcome is uncertain or appears not to be in our favour. Faith is how we crucify the flesh by trusting and obeying God against all odds. In 1 John 5:4, we are reminded that faith is our victory over the world, though this victory may not always be visible in immediate results. Sometimes, victory is found in enduring adversity and continuing to believe, even when answers seem delayed or absent. In fact, faith often does not give us the things we desire, instead, it molds us into the people who please God.
In fact, faith often does not give us the things we desire, instead, it molds us into the people who please God.
One of the most honest accounts in the Bible is that of the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11:32-35, who did not receive what they hoped for in their lifetimes yet are celebrated for their unwavering faith in God. Their faith was accounted to them as righteousness. In the eternal scheme of things, all earthly gains fade away, and it is righteousness that matters to God. In this way, they have triumphed. Faith transcends merely receiving promises; it is fundamentally about trusting the Promiser.
True faith endures beyond visible results. It remains steadfast regardless of the circumstances, consistently seeking God’s will in every situation. It is a commitment to God against all odds—choosing His will despite external challenges. Paul expresses this in Philippians 4:12-13: "I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things, I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
So, if you are facing adversity or waiting on a promise today, hold fast to your faith. Likewise, if you are thriving and enjoying the fruits of your prayers, continue to hold fast to your faith. Keep believing, keep trusting, and know that your faith is overcoming the world, regardless of your circumstances. Keep your eyes on Him, and let your faith endure.
Song of Worship
I know that I can make it
I know that I can stand
No matter what may come my way
My life is in Your hands.
Song: My life is in Your hands by Kirk Franklin
Prayer - Lord, I thank You for the gift of faith that draws me closer to You. I acknowledge that faith is not just about receiving what I desire, but about being shaped into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ, in whom You are well pleased. Help me to be steadfast in faith, and to walk in obedience to Your will, just as Jesus did. In Jesus’ name. Amen.