Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (Hebrews 11:1)
There are many layers to the biblical understanding of faith. I have discussed the faith that saves on many occasions, both here in Grace for the Race and from the pulpit: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Today, however, I would like to encourage you with a brief word on the biblical faith that sanctifies.
In his Exposition of Hebrews, the English pastor A. W. Pink spoke about the kind of faith that fills: “It is not a blind reliance on the Word of God, but an intelligent persuasion of its veracity, wisdom, and beauty.” I believe Pink said this because he knew that the faith that fills is the faith that fixes its eyes on the Author and Perfecter of that faith. A faith that fills persuades us of the truth of Jesus, the wisdom of Jesus, and the beauty of Jesus. And in so doing, it fills us to overflowing in every aspect of our lives. We walk through the details of life, knowing that He who began the good work in us will also bring it to a faith-filled completion.
In our passage today, notice these two words: sure and certain. The faith that fills is absolutely sure and certain because of the One who has given us the gift of faith. All of the promises of God are “Yes” and “Amen” in Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 1:21). When God says something, that settles it! You can take His word to the believer’s bank and cash it.
Regardless of how circumstances may look in the world around us or even in your personal life right now, God is in control of all things. And yes, that includes all of your things. And if that isn’t enough to fill you with faithfulness, God has promised to work all things for your ultimate good . . . perhaps now . . . perhaps tomorrow . . . perhaps not until you enter glory . . . but you can be sure and certain that ultimate good will come to pass.
I love the way the Amplified Bible describes the faith of Abraham, who is the spiritual father of all who have trusted in Christ:
No unbelief or distrust made him waver (doubtingly question) concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and was empowered by faith as he gave praise and glory to God, fully satisfied and assured that God was able and mighty to keep His word and to do what He had promised. (Rom 4:20-21 AMP)
Remember, God’s gift of faith keeps on giving after it saves us; it continues throughout our lives to conform us more and more into the image and likeness of Christ. And it will stop at nothing short of perfection. You have His Word on that!
This is the Gospel. This is grace for your race. NEVER FORGET THAT . . . AMEN!
Grace for the Race 