Welcome, dear brothers and sisters in Christ! Today, we embark on a thrilling journey to explore the miraculous power of faith. As we delve into this topic, I invite you to watch the accompanying video sermon below, which will provide additional insights and inspiration.
In our new series, “Miracles in Motion: Living in God’s Wonder,” we’re diving deep into the extraordinary ways God works in our lives. But before we begin, let me ask you this: Have you ever wondered if miracles still happen today? Hold onto that thought as we explore together.
The Nature of Miracles: More Than Meets the Eye
When we talk about miracles, we’re not discussing trivial occurrences. We’re exploring the mighty works of God as revealed in the Gospels. These are events that defy natural explanation and showcase God’s power in our world.
Consider this: In the original Greek, the word for miracle is “dunamis,” which means “mighty work.” It’s the same root from which we get the word “dynamite.” That’s how powerful God’s miracles are!
“But Jesus answered them, ‘My Father is working until now, and I am working.'” – John 5:17
The Ongoing Work of God
Here’s an exciting truth: God is still performing miracles today! From Vietnam to North Korea to India, lives are being transformed by the power of Jesus. But here’s the real question: Are we recognizing these miracles in our own lives?
Faith That Moves Mountains: What Does It Look Like?
Jesus tells us in Matthew 17:20, “If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” But what does this mountain-moving faith look like in practice?
Four Contours of Faith
As we navigate our spiritual journey, our faith often takes on different shapes. Let’s explore four contours of faith that we might experience:
- Rejected Faith: This is faith that’s been hardened against God’s work.
- Transacted Faith: A formulaic approach to faith, often seen in new believers.
- Exhausted Faith: Faith born out of desperation when all other options are exhausted.
- Tested and Rested Faith: Faith that trusts God regardless of the outcome.
Which of these resonates with you right now? Don’t worry if you find yourself in one of the earlier stages – faith is a journey, not a destination.
The Danger of Compartmentalized Faith
One trap we often fall into is compartmentalizing our faith. We allow God into some areas of our lives while keeping Him out of others. But here’s the truth: God desires access to every part of our lives. Are there any areas you’re keeping off-limits to God?
Moving Beyond Transactional Faith
It’s easy to fall into a “if I do X, God will do Y” mentality. But God isn’t interested in transactions – He wants a relationship. Remember, God doesn’t want your work as much as He desires you.
“For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” – Psalm 51:16-17
Embracing Tested and Rested Faith
As we mature in our faith journey, we aim to develop a tested and rested faith. This is faith that:
- Trusts God regardless of the outcome
- Is forged in the fires of trials
- Rests in God’s sovereignty and goodness
Think of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego facing the fiery furnace. They declared, “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us… But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods.” (Daniel 3:17-18) That’s tested and rested faith in action!
The Challenge: Giving Jesus What You’ve Got
Here’s your challenge for this week: Give Jesus the faith you have right now. It doesn’t matter if it feels small or weak. Remember, Jesus said faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains!
Start by identifying which contour of faith you’re currently experiencing. Then, take one step to stretch that faith. Maybe it’s praying for something you’ve been afraid to ask for, or trusting God in an area you’ve been keeping to yourself.
“If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.” – Luke 17:6
Conclusion: Leaning on the Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith
As we close, remember this beautiful image: Faith is like leaning your whole weight on God, resting your head on His shoulder. It’s not about who we are or what we can do – it’s about who God is and what He has done.
Jesus is the founder and perfecter of our faith. He starts the work in us, and He will bring it to completion. So, whatever stage of faith you’re in right now, trust that God is at work. He’s still performing miracles, still moving mountains, and still transforming lives – including yours!
Let’s pray together:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness. Help us to trust You more, to give You access to every part of our lives. Use our faith, however small it may feel, to accomplish Your will. Shape us, mold us, and transform us for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Now, I’d love to hear from you. Which contour of faith resonates with you right now? How will you stretch your faith this week? Share in the comments below, and let’s encourage one another in this journey of faith!