Growing Faith

Damascus Steel Ring

Faith in trials is a catalyst for Godly growth

Growth out of Need

Faith

Clinging to God

Provision, Life, Justice

Love

What holds us back? Self-consciousness, selfishness

Agape love sees a need and meets it

Unsung Hero (film about Smallbone family, for King and Country, Rebecca St. James), family comes from Australia following music career, David loses job, family has nothing, church provides everything, David eventually lashes back

Growth out of Endurance

Patience

Immovable Plants

“Stand fast”- keep standing

Grown, not given

Faith

Rewards of Heaven

Rewards of Character

Romans 5:3–5 NKJV

And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

James 1:2–4 NKJV

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

Growth out of Glorification

God’s Character Revealed

Enduring persecution proves God’s truth

(1) The “Watergate Argument” for the existence of God. He makes a good point!! - YouTube

proves God’s justice

Your Character Revealed

Not required for salvation

Proof of genuine faith

Faith in trials is a catalyst for Godly growth

Application

Be Grateful

Be Intentional

Persecution isn’t necessary, practicing God’s truth is

Love, patience, proving God

Be Worthy