Optimism vs. Faith Romans 4:18-22 Years ago I had a mentor of mine tell me that he decided to live everyday by the promises of God. When I read this passage I am reminded of that conversation with my mentor. The passage says that Abraham knew that he couldn’t have children due to old age. But he also believed that he will have a child because God promised it. Abraham’s faith was not based on a feeling. If it was then he would have been foolishly optimistic. But Abraham believed in God’s promise. He knew that God does not lie and that he is able to do what he promises, and so Abraham was not foolishly optimistic. In fact, he was quite rational and he did the smart thing (he trusted God). As we read this passage I believe Abraham is giving us ingredients to faith. First, it involves accepting reality, no matter how harsh, as true. Abraham faced the fact that his body was a good as dead. He didn’t think that there was a possibility this his own body and Sarah’s own body could produce a child. Likewise, I need to accept my reality and embrace that it is true. Second, I need to persevere in my trust that God’s promises are true. The text says that Abraham did not waver through unbelief. Though he didn’t receive Isaac for many years, Abraham persevered in trusting that God will one day come through with his promises. Third, I need to remember that God strengthens my faith. The passage says that Abraham was strengthen in his faith, and so I know that because God is with me he is encouraging and strengthening my faith. Let’s have faith and live as if God’s promises for you are true. Spend some time today reading some of the promises of God. PT
Posted on: Mon, 19 May 2014 10:00:00 +0000
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