Mad @God | Week 4 | Pastor Mike Stephens
Trusting God: Navigating the Journey of Faith
In the fourth week of the ‘Mad @ God’ series, Pastor Mike Stephens dives deep into the complex theme of trust as it relates to our faith in God. Using the biblical story of Sarah, he explores how trust can be challenged by time, circumstances, and external voices while encouraging us to lean into God’s promises even in the waiting.
Introduction to the Series
The ‘Mad @ God’ series has been a transformative journey, inviting us to confront our feelings towards God. Each week, we’ve delved into challenging topics, allowing us to explore the complexities of faith and trust. The discussions have not only been enlightening but have also provided a safe space for us to express our frustrations and doubts in our spiritual walks.
The Transition to Trust
As we transition from feelings of anger towards God to a place of trust, it’s essential to acknowledge the struggles that accompany this journey. Trust doesn’t always come easily, especially when faced with unanswered prayers or prolonged waiting periods. Yet, it is within these moments of uncertainty that our faith can grow deeper.
Introducing the Trust Fall Concept
The concept of a trust fall is simple yet profound. It involves falling backward, trusting someone else to catch you. In our spiritual lives, this translates to trusting God to hold us even when we can’t see Him. This metaphor challenges us to let go of our fears and embrace the unknown, knowing that God is always there to support us.
The Story of Sarah and Abraham
Sarah, the wife of Abraham, exemplifies the challenges of waiting on God’s promises. Her story illustrates the struggle between faith and doubt, particularly when faced with the reality of her situation. Despite being promised a child, the years passed, and her hope began to wane. Yet, Sarah’s journey is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness, even when our circumstances seem bleak.
God’s Promises and the Process
When God makes a promise, it often comes with a process that requires patience and faith. In Sarah’s case, the promise of a child was delayed for many years. This waiting period challenged her faith and forced her to confront her feelings of inadequacy and frustration. Yet, through it all, God remained steadfast in His commitment to fulfill His promise.
Understanding the Waiting Period
The waiting period can be one of the most challenging aspects of our faith journey. It is during this time that doubts can creep in, making us question God’s intentions and timing. Sarah’s experience teaches us that waiting does not mean God is absent; rather, He is often working behind the scenes to align our paths with His plans.
Don’t Complicate God’s Promises
In our impatience, we may be tempted to take matters into our own hands, complicating God’s promises with our solutions. Sarah’s decision to involve Hagar in her quest for a child demonstrates how our actions can lead to unintended consequences. It’s crucial to remember that God’s timing is perfect, and we should not rush His plans.
Trusting God Through the Journey
Ultimately, trusting God through the ups and downs of life is essential. The journey may be filled with challenges, but it is also a path of growth and understanding. Sarah’s story encourages us to hold on to our faith, even when faced with delays and disappointments. Trusting God is not a one-time act; it is a continuous choice we make every day.
Trust God Even When It Doesn’t Make Sense
Trusting God often requires stepping into the unknown, especially when circumstances seem illogical. Just as Sarah laughed at the idea of having a child at 90, we too may find ourselves questioning God’s plans. Yet, Genesis 18:14 reminds us, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” This question invites us to reflect on our doubts and encourages us to trust in His power.
In moments where faith feels challenged, we must remember that God’s understanding surpasses our own. He operates in a realm beyond our comprehension, orchestrating events for our good and His glory. When we trust Him, even when it seems nonsensical, we align ourselves with His greater purpose.
Personal Testimony: From Pain to Purpose
Every journey has its struggles, and my path has been no different. After years of dedicated service in ministry, I faced a heartbreaking situation that left me questioning everything. When a close friend and colleague fell into moral failure, it shook the very foundation of my faith and my calling.
During that painful season of unemployment, I felt lost and forgotten. Yet, it was during this waiting period that I learned the importance of surrendering my plans to God. I began to spend more time with my family, cherishing moments that I had previously taken for granted. This shift not only brought healing but also clarity about my purpose.
God’s timing is perfect. Just when I thought all hope was lost, a phone call from an unexpected source opened a new door. It reminded me that even in the darkest moments, God is working behind the scenes, preparing us for what lies ahead.
Trusting God Despite External Opinions
In today’s world, external voices can drown out the still, small voice of God. Social media amplifies opinions and can create a chorus of doubt that challenges our faith. Yet, we must learn to filter out the noise and focus on what God has spoken to us personally.
Sarah faced similar external pressures. At 90, the world would have told her it was impossible to conceive. Yet, she chose to believe in God’s promise over societal expectations. Psalms 37:7 reminds us to “be still in the presence of the Lord and wait patiently for him to act.” Spending time in His presence equips us to hear His voice above all others.
The Importance of Understanding What We Are Entrusted With
Understanding what God has entrusted to us is crucial for our faith journey. Each of us carries a unique set of gifts, responsibilities, and experiences. These are not just random occurrences; they are part of God’s divine plan for our lives.
In Matthew 25, the parable of the talents illustrates this concept beautifully. The master entrusted his servants with varying amounts based on their abilities, expecting them to invest and grow what they received. This parable challenges us to examine our own lives and consider how we are stewarding what God has placed in our care.
Taking Responsibility for Our Gifts
Taking responsibility for our gifts means actively engaging with what God has given us. It involves recognizing that we are called to cultivate our talents and use them for His kingdom. Whether it’s through our families, careers, or community, we are to be faithful stewards of what we’ve been entrusted with.
When we neglect our responsibilities, we risk losing what we have. The servant who buried his talent in the parable faced harsh consequences. We must choose to invest our time and resources wisely, trusting that God will multiply our efforts for His glory.
Conclusion: Trusting God in Our Journey
As we navigate the complexities of life, let us commit to trusting God wholeheartedly. This journey may come with uncertainties, but we can find peace in knowing that God is faithful. He has a plan for each of us, and it’s often in the waiting that our faith is refined and strengthened.
By embracing our gifts, understanding our responsibilities, and silencing external doubts, we can walk confidently in our faith. Remember, trusting God is not merely a one-time decision; it is a daily commitment. Let us fall back into His arms, knowing He will catch us, even when it seems impossible.