When the Unexpected happens part 5

II) STOP AND SEE THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD

THE Faithfulness of God in the Life of ELIJAH can be seen

# WORTH OF THE WIDOWS FOOD

1 Kings 17:8-16

1. SUSTENANCE Through the WIDOW.

2. FETCH me pale of WATER.

3. BAKE me a CAKE.

4. FEED ME FIRST.

5. YE SHALL BE FEED.

6. MEAL MAINTAINED.

7. OIL REMAINED FULL.

1 Kings 17:8–16 KJV 1900

And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying, Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee. So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink. And as she was going to fetch it, he called to her, and said, Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand. And she said, As the Lord thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die. And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the Lord God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the earth. And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat many days. And the barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord, which he spake by Elijah.

# CONFRONTATION on MOUNT CARMEL

1.Challenging the prophets of Baal.

2.Confronting the prophets of Baal.

3. Criticizing the Prophets of Baal.

4. Consumed Burnt Offering.

5. Conquering the Prophets of Baal.

6. Cry of praise to the Power of God.

1 kings 18:19-40

1 Kings 18:19–40 (KJV 1900)

Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at Jezebel’s table.

So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets together unto mount Carmel.

And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.

Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the Lord; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men.

Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under:

And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.

And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of your gods, but put no fire under.

And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped upon the altar which was made.

And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, Cry aloud: for he is a god; either he is talking, or he is pursuing, or he is in a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked.

And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them.

And it came to pass, when midday was past, and they prophesied until the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that there was neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.

And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down.

And Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, unto whom the word of the Lord came, saying, Israel shall be thy name:

And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.

And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid him on the wood, and said, Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood.

And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.

And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.

And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word.

Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the Lord God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again.

Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.

And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The Lord, he is the God; the Lord, he is the God.

And Elijah said unto them, Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape. And they took them: and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there.

THE Faithfulness of God in the Life of ELIJAH can be seen in (May I suggest) 4 ways

The FAITHFULNESS OF GOD IS SEEN IN HIS Care and faithfulness to ELIJAH

1 kings 18:19-40

1 Kings 18:19–40 (KJV 1900)

Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at Jezebel’s table.

So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets together unto mount Carmel.

And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.

Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the Lord; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men.

Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under:

And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.

And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of your gods, but put no fire under.

And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped upon the altar which was made.

And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, Cry aloud: for he is a god; either he is talking, or he is pursuing, or he is in a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked.

And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them.

And it came to pass, when midday was past, and they prophesied until the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that there was neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.

And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down.

And Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, unto whom the word of the Lord came, saying, Israel shall be thy name:

And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.

And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid him on the wood, and said, Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood.

And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.

And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.

And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word.

Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the Lord God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again.

Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.

And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The Lord, he is the God; the Lord, he is the God.

And Elijah said unto them, Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape. And they took them: and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there.

# WAKING UP UNDER THE JUNIPER TREE IN THE WILDERNESS

1. Threat from Jezebel.----- Gonna kill you

2. Touch of the Lord.---- Food for the Body and soul

3. Treat for the Journey.---- Second meal for the Journey

1 Kings 19:1-10

1 Kings 19:1–10 (KJV 1900)

And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword.

Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time.

And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beer-sheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there.

But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.

And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat.

And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again.

And the angel of the Lord came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee.

And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in the strength of that meat forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God.

And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah?

And he said, I have been very jealous for the Lord God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.

# MESSAGE OF GOD ON THE MOUNT OF GOD

1.WHISPER— still small voice

2.WORDS— What doest thou here

3.WILDERNESS OF DAMASCUS— Go return

1 Kings 19:11-18

1 Kings 19:11–18 (KJV 1900)

And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake:

And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.

And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?

And he said, I have been very jealous for the Lord God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.

And the Lord said unto him, Go, return on thy way to the wilderness of Damascus: and when thou comest, anoint Hazael to be king over Syria:

And Jehu the son of Nimshi shalt thou anoint to be king over Israel: and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah shalt thou anoint to be prophet in thy room.

And it shall come to pass, that him that escapeth the sword of Hazael shall Jehu slay: and him that escapeth from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha slay.

Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him.

A. God’s PROTECTION of Elijah. In this situation

B. God’s PROVISION for Elijah. in this situation

C. God’s PRESENCE with Elijah. In this situation.

D. GOD’S PROMISE TO ELIJAH. In this situation.

INTRO:- God’s Faithfulness

Lamentations 3:23 (KJV 1900)

They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

H530

אמנה / אמוּנה

'ĕmûnâh

Total KJV Occurrences: 49

faithfulness, 18

1 Sam 26:23, Psa 36:5, Psa 88:10-11 (2), Psa 89:1-2 (2), Psa 89:5, Psa 89:8, Psa 89:24, Psa 89:33, Psa 92:2, Psa 119:75, Psa 119:90, Psa 143:1, Isa 11:5, Isa25:1, Lam 3:23, Hos 2:20

1 Samuel 26:23 (KJV 1900)

The Lord render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness: for the Lord delivered thee into my hand to day, but I would not stretch forth mine hand against the Lord’s anointed.

Psalm 36:5 (KJV 1900)

Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; And thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.

Psalm 88:10–11 (KJV 1900)

Wilt thou shew wonders to the dead? Shall the dead arise and praise thee? Selah.

Shall thy lovingkindness be declared in the grave? Or thy faithfulness in destruction?

Psalm 89:1–2 (KJV 1900)

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever: With my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.

For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: Thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.

Psalm 89:5 (KJV 1900)

And the heavens shall praise thy wonders, O Lord: Thy faithfulness also in the congregation of the saints.

Psalm 89:8 (KJV 1900)

O Lord God of hosts, Who is a strong Lord like unto thee? Or to thy faithfulness round about thee?

Psalm 89:24 (KJV 1900)

But my faithfulness and my mercy shall be with him: And in my name shall his horn be exalted.

Psalm 89:33 (KJV 1900)

Nevertheless my lovingkindness will I not utterly take from him, Nor suffer my faithfulness to fail.

Psalm 92:2 (KJV 1900)

To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, And thy faithfulness every night,

Psalm 119:75 (KJV 1900)

I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, And that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.

Psalm 119:90 (KJV 1900)

Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: Thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.

Psalm 143:1 (KJV 1900)

Hear my prayer, O Lord, Give ear to my supplications: In thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.

Isaiah 11:5 (KJV 1900)

And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.

Isaiah 25:1 (KJV 1900)

O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; For thou hast done wonderful things; Thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.

Lamentations 3:23 (KJV 1900)

They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

Hosea 2:20 (KJV 1900)

I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness: And thou shalt know the Lord.

truth, 13

Psa33:4 (2), Psa 89:49, Psa 96:13, Psa 98:3, Psa 100:5, Psa 119:30, Pro 12:17, Isa 59:4, Jer 5:1, Jer 5:3, Jer 7:28, Jer 9:3

Psalm 33:4 (KJV 1900)

For the word of the Lord is right; And all his works are done in truth.

Psalm 89:49 (KJV 1900)

Lord, where are thy former lovingkindnesses, Which thou swarest unto David in thy truth?

Psalm 96:13 (KJV 1900)

Before the Lord: for he cometh, For he cometh to judge the earth: He shall judge the world with righteousness, And the people with his truth.

Psalm 98:3 (KJV 1900)

He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Psalm 100:5 (KJV 1900)

For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; And his truth endureth to all generations.

Psalm 119:30 (KJV 1900)

I have chosen the way of truth: Thy judgments have I laid before me.

Proverbs 12:17 (KJV 1900)

He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: But a false witness deceit.

Isaiah 59:4 (KJV 1900)

None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: They trust in vanity, and speak lies; They conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity.

Jeremiah 5:1 (KJV 1900)

Run ye to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and see now, and know, and seek in the broad places thereof, if ye can find a man, if there be any that executeth judgment, that seeketh the truth; and I will pardon it.

Jeremiah 5:3 (KJV 1900)

O Lord, are not thine eyes upon the truth? thou hast stricken them, but they have not grieved; thou hast consumed them, but they have refused to receive correction: they have made their faces harder than a rock; they have refused to return.

Jeremiah 7:28 (KJV 1900)

But thou shalt say unto them, This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the Lord their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth.

Jeremiah 9:3 (KJV 1900)

And they bend their tongues like their bow for lies: But they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth; For they proceed from evil to evil, And they know not me, saith the Lord.

faithfully, 5

2 Ki 12:15, 2 Ki 22:7, 2Ch 19:9, 2Ch 34:12 (2)

2 Kings 12:15 (KJV 1900)

Moreover they reckoned not with the men, into whose hand they delivered the money to be bestowed on workmen: for they dealt faithfully.

2 Kings 22:7 (KJV 1900)

Howbeit there was no reckoning made with them of the money that was delivered into their hand, because they dealt faithfully.

2 Chronicles 19:9 (KJV 1900)

And he charged them, saying, Thus shall ye do in the fear of the Lord, faithfully, and with a perfect heart.

2 Chronicles 34:12 (KJV 1900)

And the men did the work faithfully: and the overseers of them were Jahath and Obadiah, the Levites, of the sons of Merari; and Zechariah and Meshullam, of the sons of the Kohathites, to set it forward; and other of the Levites, all that could skill of instruments of musick.

set, 5

1 Ch 9:22, 1 Ch 9:26, 1 Ch 9:31, 2 Ch 31:15, 2 Ch 31:18

1 Chronicles 9:22 (KJV 1900)

All these which were chosen to be porters in the gates were two hundred and twelve. These were reckoned by their genealogy in their villages, whom David and Samuel the seer did ordain in their set office.

1 Chronicles 9:26 (KJV 1900)

For these Levites, the four chief porters, were in their set office, and were over the chambers and treasuries of the house of God.

1 Chronicles 9:31 (KJV 1900)

And Mattithiah, one of the Levites, who was the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the set office over the things that were made in the pans.

2 Chronicles 31:15 (KJV 1900)

And next him were Eden, and Miniamin, and Jeshua, and Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah, in the cities of the priests, in their set office, to give to their brethren by courses, as well to the great as to the small:

2 Chronicles 31:18 (KJV 1900)

And to the genealogy of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through all the congregation: for in their set office they sanctified themselves in holiness:

faithful, 3

Psa 119:86, Psa 119:138, Pro 28:20

Psalm 119:86 (KJV 1900)

All thy commandments are faithful: They persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.

Psalm 119:138 (KJV 1900)

Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous And very faithful.

Proverbs 28:20 (KJV 1900)

A faithful man shall abound with blessings: But he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

faith, 1

Hab_2:4

Habakkuk 2:4 (KJV 1900)

Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: But the just shall live by his faith.

stability, 1

Isa_33:6

Isaiah 33:6 (KJV 1900)

And wisdom and knowledge shall be The stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: The fear of the Lord is his treasure.

steady, 1

Exo_17:12

Exodus 17:12 (KJV 1900)

But Moses’ hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.

truly, 1

Pro_12:22

Proverbs 12:22 (KJV 1900)

Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: But they that deal truly are his delight.

verily, 1

Psa_37:3

Psalm 37:3 (KJV 1900)

Trust in the Lord, and do good; So shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.

The faithfulness of God means God is unchanging in his nature, true to his Word, has promised salvation to his people, and will keep his promises forever.

He is worthy of eternal trust no matter how unlikely his promises seem.

Nothing in heaven or on earth can prevent God from accomplishing all that he has promised his people through Jesus Christ.

This reliability of God should be a great source of comfort and strength for God’s people as they repeatedly fail and go through trials and suffering.

Faithfulness of God, The

Is part of His character.

Isa 49:7

Isaiah 49:7 (KJV 1900)

Thus saith the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, To him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, Princes also shall worship, Because of the Lord that is faithful, And the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee.

1 Corinth 1:9

1 Corinthians 1:9 (KJV 1900)

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Thess 5:24

1 Thessalonians 5:24 (KJV 1900)

Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

DECLARED TO BE

Great.

Lamentations 3:23

Lamentations 3:23 (KJV 1900)

They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

Established.

Ps 89:2

Psalm 89:2 (KJV 1900)

For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: Thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.

Incomparable.

Ps 89:8

Psalm 89:8 (KJV 1900)

O Lord God of hosts, Who is a strong Lord like unto thee? Or to thy faithfulness round about thee?

Unfailing.

Ps 89:33

Psalm 89:33 (KJV 1900)

Nevertheless my lovingkindness will I not utterly take from him, Nor suffer my faithfulness to fail.

2 Tim 2:13

2 Timothy 2:13 (KJV 1900)

If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.

Infinite.

Ps 36:5

Psalm 36:5 (KJV 1900)

Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; And thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.

Everlasting.

Ps 119:90

Psalm 119:90 (KJV 1900)

Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: Thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.

Ps 146:6

Psalm 146:6 (KJV 1900)

Which made heaven, and earth, The sea, and all that therein is: Which keepeth truth for ever:

Should be pleaded in prayer.

Ps 143:1

Psalm 143:1 (KJV 1900)

Hear my prayer, O Lord, Give ear to my supplications: In thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.

Should be proclaimed.

Ps 40:10

Psalm 40:10 (KJV 1900)

I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation.

Ps 89:1

Psalm 89:1 (KJV 1900)

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever: With my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.

MANIFESTED

In His counsels.

Isa 25:1

Isaiah 25:1 (KJV 1900)

O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; For thou hast done wonderful things; Thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.

In afflicting His saints.

Ps 119:75

Psalm 119:75 (KJV 1900)

I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, And that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.

In fulfilling His promises.

1 Kings 8:20

1 Kings 8:20 (KJV 1900)

And the Lord hath performed his word that he spake, and I am risen up in the room of David my father, and sit on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised, and have built an house for the name of the Lord God of Israel.

Ps 132:11

Psalm 132:11 (KJV 1900)

The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David; He will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.

Micah 7:20

Micah 7:20 (KJV 1900)

Thou wilt perform the truth to Jacob, and the mercy to Abraham, Which thou hast sworn unto our fathers from the days of old.

Heb 10:23

Hebrews 10:23 (KJV 1900)

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

In keeping His covenant.

Deut 7:9

Deuteronomy 7:9 (KJV 1900)

Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;

Ps 111:5

Psalm 111:5 (KJV 1900)

He hath given meat unto them that fear him: He will ever be mindful of his covenant.

In executing His judgments.

Jere 23:20

Jeremiah 23:20 (KJV 1900)

The anger of the Lord shall not return, until he have executed, and till he have performed the thoughts of his heart: in the latter days ye shall consider it perfectly.

Jere 51:29

Jeremiah 51:29 (KJV 1900)

And the land shall tremble and sorrow: For every purpose of the Lord shall be performed against Babylon, To make the land of Babylon a desolation Without an inhabitant.

In forgiving sins.

1 John 1:9

1 John 1:9 (KJV 1900)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

To His saints.

Ps 89:24

Psalm 89:24 (KJV 1900)

But my faithfulness and my mercy shall be with him: And in my name shall his horn be exalted.

2 Thess 3:3

2 Thessalonians 3:3 (KJV 1900)

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

Saints encouraged to depend on.

1 Peter 4:19

1 Peter 4:19 (KJV 1900)

Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Should be magnified.

Ps 89:5

Psalm 89:5 KJV 1900

And the heavens shall praise thy wonders, O Lord: Thy faithfulness also in the congregation of the saints.

Ps 92:2

Psalm 92:2 (KJV 1900)

To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, And thy faithfulness every night,

THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD

   God is faithful.

Deuteronomy 7:9

Deuteronomy 7:9 (KJV 1900)

Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;

Deuteronomy 32:4

Deuteronomy 32:4 (KJV 1900)

He is the Rock, his work is perfect: For all his ways are judgment: A God of truth and without iniquity, Just and right is he.

Isaiah 49:7

Isaiah 49:7 (KJV 1900)

Thus saith the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, To him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, Princes also shall worship, Because of the Lord that is faithful, And the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee.

1 Corinthians 1:9

1 Corinthians 1:9 (KJV 1900)

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Corinthians 10:13

1 Corinthians 10:13 (KJV 1900)

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

1 Thessalonians 5:24

1 Thessalonians 5:24 KJV 1900

Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

2 Thessalonians 3:3

2 Thessalonians 3:3 (KJV 1900)

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

1 John 1:9

1 John 1:9 (KJV 1900)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

   "Faithful" means to "stay" or "support".

(1) THE ETYMOLOGY -- The Hebrew root from which the words translated "faithful" and

"faithfulness" in the Old Testament are derived means to prop or stay or support.

The intransitive use of the word signifies to stay oneself or be supported; hence, the word "faithful", as applied to a person, means someone a person can safely lean upon.

The Greek word used in the New Testament means trustworthy or to be relied upon, but this Greek word is the same used for the Hebrew word mentioned above, and of course gets its meaning from this usage.

   Usage of the word "faithful".

In each of the following excerpts, the word in italics was translated as "faithful" in the 1885 Revised King James Bible, as indicated in Torrey's 17th Edition:

Psalms 119:86

Psalm 119:86 (KJV 1900)

All thy commandments are faithful: They persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.

Proverbs 14:5

Proverbs 14:5 (KJV 1900)

A faithful witness will not lie: But a false witness will utter lies.

Matthew 24:45-46

Matthew 24:45–46 KJV 1900

Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

Matthew 25:21, 23

Matthew 25:21 KJV 1900

His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

Matthew 25:23 KJV 1900

His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

1 Timothy 1:15

1 Timothy 1:15 KJV 1900

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

Revelation 21:5

Revelation 21:5 KJV 1900

And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

The Biblical usage of the word conforms to its etymology.

The thought will come out more fully and definitely as we come to see how the faithfulness of God is manifested.

Therefore, the proposition "God is faithful" means God is a being upon whom we can absolutely rely or stay ourselves.

POINT 10:   God's faithfulness is great.

Lamentations 3:23

Lamentations 3:23 (KJV 1900)

They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

POINT 20:   God's faithfulness reaches to the skies.

Psalms 36:5

Psalm 36:5 KJV 1900

Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; And thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.

Psalms 89:2

Psalm 89:2 KJV 1900

For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: Thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.

POINT 30:   All God's work is done in faithfulness.

Psalms 33:4

Psalm 33:4 KJV 1900

For the word of the Lord is right; And all his works are done in truth.

Topic 40:   How the faithfulness of God is manifested.

POINT 10:   God's faithfulness is manifested in His keeping His promise and covenant. His fulfilling every word that goes out of His mouth regardless of what man does.

Hebrews 10:23, 36-37

Hebrews 10:23 KJV 1900

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

Hebrews 10:36–37 KJV 1900

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

Deuteronomy 7:9

Deuteronomy 7:9 KJV 1900

Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;

1 Kings 8:23-24, 56

1 Kings 8:23–24 (KJV 1900)

And he said, Lord God of Israel, There is no God like thee, in heaven above, or on earth beneath, who keepest covenant and mercy with thy servants that walk before thee with all their heart:

Who hast kept with thy servant David my father that thou promisedst him: thou spakest also with thy mouth, and hast fulfilled it with thine hand, as it is this day.

1 Kings 8:56 KJV 1900

Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto his people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed one word of all his good promise, which he promised by the hand of Moses his servant.

Psalms 89:32-34

Psalm 89:32–34 KJV 1900

Then will I visit their transgression with the rod, And their iniquity with stripes. Nevertheless my lovingkindness will I not utterly take from him, Nor suffer my faithfulness to fail. My covenant will I not break, Nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.

Psalms 119:89-90

Psalm 119:89–90 KJV 1900

LAMED. For ever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: Thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.

POINT 20:   God's faithfulness is manifested in the unfailing defense and deliverance of His servants in times of trial, testing and conflict.

1 Peter 4:19

1 Peter 4:19 KJV 1900

Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Psalms 89:20-26

Psalm 89:20–26 KJV 1900

I have found David my servant; With my holy oil have I anointed him: With whom my hand shall be established: Mine arm also shall strengthen him. The enemy shall not exact upon him; Nor the son of wickedness afflict him. And I will beat down his foes before his face, And plague them that hate him. But my faithfulness and my mercy shall be with him: And in my name shall his horn be exalted. I will set his hand also in the sea, And his right hand in the rivers. He shall cry unto me, Thou art my father, My God, and the rock of my salvation.

This might well be called "The Faithfulness Psalm." (See verse 1, etc.)

POINT 30:   God's faithfulness is manifested in His standing by His people and saving them even when they are unfaithful to Him.

Lamentations 3:22-23

Lamentations 3:22–23 KJV 1900

It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

Jeremiah 51:5

Jeremiah 51:5 KJV 1900

For Israel hath not been forsaken, Nor Judah of his God, of the Lord of hosts; Though their land was filled with sin Against the Holy One of Israel.

2 Timothy 2:13

2 Timothy 2:13 KJV 1900

If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.

1 Samuel 12:20-22

1 Samuel 12:20–22 KJV 1900

And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: yet turn not aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart; And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain. For the Lord will not forsake his people for his great name’s sake: because it hath pleased the Lord to make you his people.

POINT 40:   God's demonstrates his faithfulness by not letting Satan tempt His children beyond their ability to resist, and God always provides an escape.

1 Corinthians 10:13

1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 1900

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

POINT 50:   God's faithfulness is shown in strengthening and protecting those He has called, guarding them from the evil one, sanctifying them wholly and preserving them entire -- spirit, soul and body -- without blame at the coming of Jesus.

This confidence of God's children in regard to their future is not in their faithfulness, but in His.

2 Thessalonians 3:3

2 Thessalonians 3:3 KJV 1900

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

1 Corinthians 1:8-9

1 Corinthians 1:8–9 KJV 1900

Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5:23- 24 [

1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 (KJV 1900)

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

John 10:28-29

John 10:28–29 KJV 1900

And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

POINT 60:   God's faithfulness is manifested in His chastening His children when they go astray.

Psalms 119:75

Psalm 119:75 KJV 1900

I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, And that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.

Hebrews 12:6

Hebrews 12:6 KJV 1900

For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

POINT 70:   God's faithfulness is manifested in His forgiving His children when they confess their sins.

1 John 1:9

1 John 1:9 KJV 1900

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Our confidence that God will forgive our sins when confessed rests upon two known facts about God: God is righteous and God is faithful.

To doubt that your sin is forgiven when you have confessed it is to question His righteousness and His faithfulness as well as His veracity.

It is not humility, but presumption.

POINT 80:   God's faithfulness is manifested in His answering the prayers of His children.

Psalms 143:1-2

Psalm 143:1–2 KJV 1900

Hear my prayer, O Lord, Give ear to my supplications: In thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness. And enter not into judgment with thy servant: For in thy sight shall no man living be justified.

The Righteousness, Mercy and Faithfulness of God run along nearly parallel lines, and they are all pledged to the deliverance, defense and complete and eternal salvation of God's people.

Responding to Our Knowledge of God - Faithfulness

Proverbs 28:20

Proverbs 28:20 KJV 1900

A faithful man shall abound with blessings: But he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

.1 Corinthians 1:9

1 Corinthians 1:9 (KJV 1900)

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

Introduction:

1. We’re continuing our new series today in our Worship Service: Reaching New Heights in Our Knowledge of God!

2. We need this study for several reasons, one of which is what Daniel wrote:

Daniel 11:32

Daniel 11:32 KJV 1900

And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.

- we say this in counseling a lot, but counseling problem are theological problems (unless of course it’s medical problem that can be proven in a laboratory)

- i.e. people struggle with problems in marriage, family, various life situations because many times their view of God is WRONG!

Input: Complete this sentence: Many people think that God isn’t __________________?

– but gracious, powerful, loving, in control, patient, aware, etc. – all of these are BAD theology]

- so that’s why, in part, we doing this study

- Paul wrote in Phil. 3:10-14 Philippians 3:10

Philippians 3:10–14 KJV 1900

That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:10 KJV 1900

That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

‘know’ = knowledge based on personal experience (because of the interaction/relationship)

3. Our goal is that you not only Grow to greater Heights in your Intellectual Knowledge of God . . .

but in your PRACTICAL knowledge of God (a life of obedience, a attitude of hope, and high motivation for future service to demonstrate that faith in God and what you truly believe about Him!

4. The plan is to take each of the attributes about God that we study and FURTHER apply them to our lives, families, work, and life situations!

* Basically, we’re wanting to accomplish two things:

1) to glorify God by our obedience to His Word

2) heed the admonition of ‘knowledge alone can make a person proud’ – so we want to put that knowledge into ACTION!

1 Corinthians 8:1 . . . Knowledge makes arrogant, but love edifies!- the first part of our study includes:

1 Corinthians 8:1 KJV 1900

Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.

I. Growing to greater Heights in Our Knowledge of God: His Faithfulness!

- that is (or was – depending on your ABF) the subject of our study in the worship service

* Faithfulness = He fulfills all His promises to His people, whether expressed in words He has spoken or the written Word

- in other words, God keeps His promises and is very dependable and loyal to those He loves and those who obey Him!

- that faithfulness is communicated by His Words AND His actions (i.e. He demonstrates that faithfulness)

- probably one of the more well-know verses on this subject is:

Lamentations 3:23

Lamentations 3:23 KJV 1900

They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

.- now, * One of our goals in this study is to learn more about God . . . and His

FAITHFULNESS so we can be more FAITHFUL to His Word and bring glory to Him by:

1) exercising our faith in a God Who is faithful

2) proclaiming this truth of God’s faithfulness to others

3) modeling this attribute in our lives (that others may “see our good works and glorify our Father Who is in heaven!”)

- each week, we’re going to be asking a set of questions for you to consider in the context of the specific aspect of God that is being presented in the Worship Service!

II. Responding to Our Knowledge of God’s Faithfulness

Q: Are you faithful to God and to those you say you love?

What other passages communicate this attribute of God? [various answers]

Psalm 33:4 For the word of the LORD is upright, and all His work is done in faithfulness.

Psalm 33:4 (KJV 1900)

For the word of the Lord is right; And all his works are done in truth.

Psalm 89:1 I will sing of the lovingkindness of the LORD forever; to all generations I will make known Your faithfulness with my mouth.

Psalm 89:1 (KJV 1900)

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever: With my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 119:86 All Your commandments are faithful; they have persecuted me with a lie; help me!

Psalm 119:86 (KJV 1900)

All thy commandments are faithful: They persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.What impact should this attribute have in the

2 Thessalonians 3:3 (KJV 1900)

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

following areas:Temptation to sin:- I should question my loyalty to God as I think about sinning – am I faithful?

- how will this choice impact my relationship to God

- how will this choice impact my testimony to others

Facing Trials (suffering, illness, disappointments)- God is with me during the trial (Heb. 13:5 I will never leave you . . . )

Hebrews 13:5 (KJV 1900)

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

- God will never give me more than I can handle . . . God is faithful

- I can have HOPE in the darkest of hours

- even is I don’t understand, I can rest in the fact that God is faithful

Conflicts with people:- while people may disappoint me (or even be disloyal) – God WON’T!!!

- am I being faithful to the Word in trying to solve problems

- I have to be concerned with my being faithful to others and obedience to Word

- the main focus is to do the right thing and pleasing God because He is holy

Prayer Life:- we can be encouraged because He is faithful to His word:

Matthew 7:7 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

Matthew 7:7 (KJV 1900)

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

- don’t react when God doesn’t answer your request on YOUR TIME

- you can go to Him ANYTIME and He is there for you – He’s faithful!

In what ways does our church emphasize/model this quality? [various answers]- Counseling – one of the most common verses we share it 1 Cor. 10:13

1 Corinthians 10:13 (KJV 1900)

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

- we engage in building projects because we believe God is faithful

- we sing praise to Him in our Worship Services about this issue

In what ways do we as a church need to GROW in the way we emphasize/model this attribute? [various answers]- to encourage one another in times of

difficultly that God is faithful and keeps His promises

- to model that faithfulness in our communication to our missionaries!!!

How can you emphasize this attribute to your family (spouse, children) and friends?- teaching them to keep their commitments – to be dependable/faithful

- don’t develop a friendship that’s conditional – as long as _____ happens, then we’re friends

- don’t get discourage or loose hope when God doesn’t answer your prayers in your time/way

- bring them up in the teaching of the Lord (explain to them how God is faithful – He always keeps His promises

- model faithfulness to your spouse/family & kids/local church !

How can we help each other grow in this quality?- Be willing to communicate when someone is unfaithful – go asking q’s about their choices

- Ask questions about how each other is doing in the area of faithfulness

- Pray for one another to be faithful

What keeps you from modeling this attribute or causes you to doubt God in this area?- wrong view of God – ignoring the examples of God’s faithfulness in the scriptures

- confusing God’s faithfulness with God’s timing of demonstrating His faithfulness

How did OT Israel fail to grasp this aspect of God’s faithfulness?

Example: They were doubting His promises! Deuteronomy 32:20

Deuteronomy 32:20 (KJV 1900)

And he said, I will hide my face from them, I will see what their end shall be: For they are a very froward generation, Children in whom is no faith.

What instruction was given to the NT regarding this subject?

1 Corinthians 1:9

1 Corinthians 1:9 (KJV 1900)

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

.Matthew 25:21 -23

Matthew 25:21–23 (KJV 1900)

His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.

His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

'Galatians 5:22

Galatians 5:22 (KJV 1900)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

KEY QUESTION: What impact should this attribute have on the following?

Outreach: we need to faithfully proclaim the Gospel

Praise/Worship: it should bring confidence, trust, joy and hope in our Faithful God!

Discipleship/Growth: keep growing to be like Christ (He is Faithful!)

Serving (use of gifts/abilities): be dependable and faithful to do what I’m asked to do and/or I’ve committed to do

One another ministry (Building Meaningful Relationships): God made us relational beings and we need to be careful how we treat each other “Faithful are the wounds of a friend” (Prov. 27:6

Proverbs 27:6 (KJV 1900)

Faithful are the wounds of a friend; But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

Conclusion:

Q: Are you seeking to be more faithful because God is faithful?

Q: In what ways does your knowledge of God truly impact your actions/choices/thoughts?

Remember this:

1 Corinthians 1:9 (KJV 1900)

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

5 Ways God Is Faithful When Life Doesn't Feel Fair

God is faithful, and we are called to walk by faith and not by sight. ( 2 Corinthians 5:7 ).

2 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV 1900)

(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

Despite the evolving and unstable seasons that life brings, we are called to trust God.

Through times of joy and tribulation, God’s faithfulness remains consistent and steadfast.

Life can be hard, challenging, and seem unfair.

When things do not go according to our plans, we become frantic, but God remains faithful.

Within your own strength, it is easy to want to become cynical and dismiss how God has kept you in the past.

I invite you to not lose hope, but instead to use God’s track record of faithfulness as your strength.

God has specific attributes that He will continually show you that represent His faithfulness.

God is a consistent provider, encourager, comforter, source of strength, and supporter.

I will focus on these five traits and ways that God remains faithful, through the peaks and valleys of life.

You may be going through a season of rejection, loss, grief, or uncertainty. 

Do not be discouraged; there is good news for you: God’s faithfulness will never waver.

We see God’s faithfulness evident in the scriptures in the lives of many men and women.

Throughout personal difficulties, God continually provided, strengthened, comforted, and supported His children.

 Hannah was childless, but God blessed her with a son, Samuel.

God provided manna and provision for the Israelites when they were in the wilderness for 40 years. Things will happen that are out of our control, but we must continue to give thanks for God’s faithfulness in our lives.

Despite how you may feel or the circumstance that you are in, reflect on how God has been faithful to you.