Do You Believe? - Message 8 - Faith Works. In Hebrews 11:4-16 we find a description of several individuals who had faith and as a result they did certain praiseworthy things. We know that faith directly affects behavior, that is to say, faith that is real, true, alive, and active is a faith that works. Now Hebrews 11:6 tells us that “without faith it is impossible to please God.” Faith is believing that He is, and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him (Jeremiah 29:13). So we see here not only that faith works, but that without faith we cannot please God. It's true. Faith in Christ is so vital and so necessary for living the Christian life that we are told in Romans 14:23 that anything we do that is “not from faith is sin.” If we do anything or say anything or think anything that is not motivated by our trust in God then that action, word, or thought is inherently sinful. In this text we learn about Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Sarah. Another common theme here is this thread running throughout these people's lives is that they had assurance along with their faith. True faith does not leave us doubting or fearing or worrying. True faith leads to assurance and confidence. As we believe, we obey. We trust God for the impossible, and we are assured that He will do what He has promised. Think about it. How often do we claim to be walking by faith, but we are reluctant, and fearful, and full of worry or doubt? As Jesus responded often to His disciples, we are people of “little faith.” |
