A Step of Faith

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message reminds us that living by faith is not always about doing the sensible thing, but rather about trusting in God's promises and plan for our lives. We are encouraged to take steps of faith, even when it doesn't make sense to others, because we have a hope that transcends this world. As we walk by faith, we are called to live out our lives in a way that honors God, even if it means going against the grain of societal norms.

Key Scripture References

• 1 Corinthians 3:18-20 - In this passage, Paul writes, "If any man among you seems to be wise in this world, let him become a fool that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God." This sets the tone for understanding that our perspective on things can be very different from God's perspective. We must learn to see life through His eyes and trust in His plan.
• Hebrews 11:1-3 - The author of Hebrews writes, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." This passage defines what faith is all about: trusting in something we can't see or touch. It's not always easy to do, but it's essential if we want to please God.
• Matthew 19:21-26 - Jesus had a conversation with a rich young ruler who asked him how he could inherit eternal life. Jesus told him to sell all his possessions and give the money to the poor. The man was unwilling to do this, and Jesus said that it would be impossible for him to follow Him because of his love for wealth. This passage shows us that our priorities can often get in the way of following God.
• Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul writes, "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." This passage shows us that true wisdom is found in knowing Christ and following Him.
• Proverbs 3:5-6 - The writer says, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." This passage encourages us to trust in God's guidance and direction, even when we don't understand what He is doing.
• Matthew 16:24-26 - Jesus said, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." This passage shows us that following Christ requires us to put Him first in our lives and be willing to do what He asks of us.
• Romans 8:28 - The author writes, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." This passage reminds us that even when life doesn't make sense, God is working everything out for our good.

Key Takeaways

• We must learn to see life through God's eyes and trust in His plan, even if it means going against the grain of societal norms. This requires us to deny ourselves and take up our cross, following Christ as our Lord and Savior.
• True wisdom is found in knowing Christ and following Him. We must be willing to let go of our own understanding and lean on God's guidance and direction.
• Living by faith means trusting in something we can't see or touch. It's not always easy, but it's essential if we want to please God.
• We are called to live out our lives in a way that honors God, even when it doesn't make sense to others. This requires us to be willing to take steps of faith and trust in His promises.

This Week's Challenge

Take time this week to reflect on your priorities and ask yourself if they align with God's plan for your life. Are there things that you are holding onto too tightly, things that are keeping you from following Christ fully? Pray about it and seek God's guidance on how to let go of these things and follow Him more closely.

Reflection Questions

• What are some areas in your life where you are struggling to trust God's plan, even when it doesn't make sense?
• How can you take a step of faith this week, trusting in God's promises and plan for your life?
• Are there any things that you need to let go of in order to follow Christ more closely? What are some steps you can take to do so?