“Abraham believed in God, and God counted him as righteous because of faith.” – Romans 4:3 (NLT)
God has been teaching me so much about faith this month in Albania. I’ve recently begun reading Romans in the Bible. Today I was reading Romans 4, which was also talking a lot about faith. It seems obvious that having faith is a big part of following Jesus, but God has recently shown me so many new things about this little five letter word.
Many know we’re not saved by our works (going to church, reading our bible, being a “good” person, etc.), but by truly knowing and believing in Jesus. God doesn’t care if we’re continually doing these things unless we’re doing them as a result of knowing Him. When we truly know Jesus, we WANT to do these things (go to church, read bible, being kind and selfless to others). This type of relationship with Jesus requires faith.
“Clearly, God’s promise to give the whole earth to Abraham and his descendants was based not on his obedience to God’s law, but on a right relationship with God that comes by faith. If God’s promise is only for those who obey the law, then faith is not necessary and the promise is pointless.” – Romans 4: 13-14
God wants to continually grow our faith because through faith is how we can continue to grow deeper in our relationship with Him.
I’ve noticed through my journey with God that He has continually increased my faith little by little.
About three years ago when I first started to truly walk with Jesus, I knew the Bible said we were supposed to put all our trust in the Lord. I just simply couldn’t do this. I didn’t trust the Lord with my life and my future. I desired to, though, so I prayed God would change my heart and He definitely did. Today I’m 100% at the point where I know the Lord’s plans are better than my own and I only want what He wants for me. He had a purpose for my life before I was even a thought in this world, so I’m all in for following what He has for me.
Another example of God growing my faith was when I was working in the music industry knowing God was calling me into full time ministry. I had no idea how I was going to do this, but the Lord promised He would provide a way. It took a year and a half but I remained faithful, and He answered that prayer with the World Race.
Furthermore, once I knew God wanted me to do the World Race, I realized I had to raise $18,700 for this 11 month trip. That’s a crazy amount of money, but since God led me to the World Race, He told me not to worry and that He would provide all the money. Less than 2 and a half months later, all the money was raised.
A few days ago was the halfway point through the race. I have zero plans for when I get home (which is the case for the majority of my squad), but I’m honestly not concerned because I know God will eventually show me what He’s calling me into after the race.
“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
Growing your faith is a journey, but it’s always worth it because it always takes you closer to Jesus. I’ve noticed that when waiting for God to answer prayers, a lot of the time there will be a period when you feel like nothing is changing and you’re desperate for anything, just something new to happen! Those are the times the Lord is asking you to press in MORE. That’s not the time to give up, it’s the time to surrender more of the control you’re holding onto and deepen your trust in God. He uses those dry, struggle filled times for your good; to draw you closer to Him and ultimately, to increase your faith!
So maybe next time you feel like God is silent and not answering your prayer, try pressing in more! I know He will answer you. It may not be the way you’re expecting, but it will be better.
