People have a deep interest in their future. So, early in January, unbelievers have their fortunes told through divination or the 'Four Pillars', even though they know they are being cheated. It is done to settle down their uneasy minds about the future. If we have accurate knowledge about tomorrow, we can cope with any difficulty, no matter what comes. As believers, we can get knowledge about tomorrow through the promises of God. Therefore, as God says, "It will be done as you have believed!" In other words, it will be done, as we believe in the promises of God. By believing in the Word of God, we can know about tomorrow, and through faith we can live boldly and overcome the realities of life.
1. God's promise that He would lead them to the land flowing with milk and honey Even though they faced so many obstacles, they could overcome all of them- only when they believed (Ex 3:7-10). 1) The crisis of the Red Sea had been solved already. Although the Israelites were anxious because of their lack of knowledge and faith, Moses already knew their future (Ex 14:13,14). 2) The problem of the bitter water of Marah in the desert of Shur had been solved already. (1) The method of solution is God's secret (Jer 33:3; Ex 15:25). (2) People must have the knowledge and faith that their problems have been solved already (Ps 55:22). 3) God had supplied the solutions to their growing problems such as lack of food, drought, and health problems. They had to know, believe, and depend upon His help. However, since the people did not believe, they grumbled and complained about everything (Dt 8:1,2; 1:32,33). 4) The war with the seven nations of the Canaanites was the war that was already won (Ex 23:31; Dt 1:30; Nu 33:55,56).
2. Everything that God provided for us After Jesus had suffered on the cross for six hours, He called out with a loud voice, "It is finished," and breathed His last breath. 1) He has already accomplished all forgiveness, righteousness, and glory (2 Co 5:21; Eph 2:8,9). 2) He has accomplished all sanctification and the fullness of the Holy Spirit (Tit 3:6,7). 3) He has accomplished all healing (1 Pe 2:24). 4) He has accomplished all freedom from the curse (Gal 3:13,14; 2 Co 8:9). 5) He has accomplished all of the resurrection and the kingdom of heaven (2 Co 5:17; Col 1:13; 1 Pe 2:9; Jn 14:1-3; 2 Co 5:1).
3. The problem is in our understanding and faith If we do not know and do not believe, like the Israelites, we will become anxious, grumble, and complain (Ps 81:10,11; 1 Co 10:10,11). 1) "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (1 Co 2:9,10). 2) Look at the land of promise - Lift up your eyes and look from your place to the north, south, east, and west (Ge 15:5; 13:14,15; Php 4:19). 3) If we believe, we can see the glory of God (Jn 11:40; 2 Co 4:18; Ro 10:17; Heb 11:1,2). If we look at the environment through our senses, we become negative (Jn 11:40). 4) You will receive whatever you ask for in prayer (Mt 21:22; Jn 15:7; Ro 8:32; Jas 1:6-8). 5) Acknowledge boldly (Pr 18:20,21; Mk 11:22-24; Mt 6:31-33; 7:7-11; Jn 16:33).
We all hate hardship but desire glory. However, we must never forget that glory is the flower of faith upon the field of hardship. When we shine the light of faith in our hearts upon the field of hardship, we will see the flower of glory in the glorious morning of our resurrection.
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