A new beginning … with faith – 18 January 2023
By Benescke Janse van Rensburg
Bible text(s)
Hebrews 11
Faith
Mark 11
Philippians 4
I recently read this quote: “The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith and the beginning of true faith, the end of anxiety.”
Whenever there is a challenge in our lives (for example a crisis in the workplace, loneliness, a need for a baby or spouse, a crisis with our finances or health or whatever it may be be), we must pray until we experience peace in our hearts. At this point, we know that we have surrendered the challenge to God.
Hereafter our prayers change to:
1. Thanking God that he is in control.
2. Reminding ourselves (and God) that we believe that he is Sovereign and at work – even if it doesn’t feel like it.
3. Asking God to strengthen our faith through his Holy Spirit.
Why is the above-mentioned steps important? Whenever our breakthrough takes longer than expected, we can easily pray ourselves out of faith by focusing more on the challenge than on God’s ability to establish a breakthrough. We start complaining more than having faith in God.
In Hebrews 11:1 we read: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (KJV) In Mark 11:24 Jesus says: “… whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (NIV) And in Philippians 4:6-7 it is written: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)
God cares about your situation and he still honours faith – think about the woman with the issue of blood (Luke 8); the captain over 100 men (Luke 7); Daniel and the lion’s den (Daniel 6); Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3); Joshua and Caleb spying on the Promised Land (Numbers 13); and David and Goliath (1 Samuel 16).
The beginning of worry is the end of faith, but the beginning of true faith, the end of worry. Strength.
Prayer: Father God, today I bring (name your situation) to you anew. Thank you, that I can know that you are working. I believe that you are sovereign and so is your timing. Please strengthen me through your Holy Spirit in my faith when I am weak. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen
