Faithful Footsteps (2)

Faith in the Wilderness: Lessons from Abraham

Hebrews 11:1 KJV 1900

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Bible Passage: Ex 16:1–3, Heb 11:8–12

Summary: These passages reflect on the struggles of the Israelites in the wilderness and the faith of Abraham as he obeyed God's call. Both narratives showcase the theme of faith amidst uncertainty and hardship.

Teaching: This sermon emphasizes that true faith requires action and steadfastness.

Big Idea: Faith involves trusting God in the wilderness experiences of life, just as Abraham did, believing that He will provide and fulfill His promises despite our immediate circumstances.

1. Complaints in the Wilderness

Ex 16:1-3

You could highlight the Israelites' immediate reaction of doubt and complaint upon facing scarcity in the wilderness of Sin. This passage invites us to reflect on our own tendencies to doubt and worry when life becomes difficult. Emphasize that just as the Israelites were called to trust in God's provisions, we too are called to have faith in His promises, even when our circumstances seem dire. This moment reveals how our faith is tested and can grow stronger when we rely on God rather than our own understanding.

A church decided to plant a community garden. Initially, a group of members complained about the weeds and the work needed. But as the plants began to grow, they found joy in the harvest and community engagement. It reflects how God takes our complaints and transforms them into abundance if we work together and remain patient, as indicated in Galatians 6:9.

2. Courage to Move

Hebrews 11:8–10 KJV 1900

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

Genesis 12:1–5 KJV 1900

Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran. And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother’s son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.

His willingness to leave everything familiar is paralleled with our life situations where we must step out in faith, trusting in God's guidance despite uncertainty. , which encourages us to focus on God's eternal promises rather than temporary trials. His faith journey is a model for believers who seek to trust God regardless of the visible challenges.

When I was in high school, I decided to try out for the soccer team, even though I had never played before. I remember standing on the field, surrounded by kids who had been playing for years. It felt terrifying, but I took a deep breath and just started running. That experience taught me that sometimes you just have to take that first step into the unknown. Just like Peter stepping out of the boat, it’s the courage to try that often leads to new adventures!

3. Confidence in the Impossible

Hebrews 11:11–12 KJV 1900

Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.

Maybe consider how Sarah's faith resulted in the birth of Isaac, emphasizing the miraculous nature of God's promises fulfilled even against all odds. Despite initial doubt, Sarah's eventual faith marks the transition from skepticism to belief, which can encourage us to hold onto God’s promises. Mention how God's timing and ways often surpass human logic, inviting us to place our confidence in His power and faithfulness. This illustrates the transformative power of faith that can bring forth new life and hope.

In the children’s show 'Toy Story', Buzz Lightyear believes he can fly, despite being just a toy. His confidence inspires those around him. Although initially misguided, his journey teaches us that faith can lead to great adventures, even when the path seems impossible. Just as his friends rallied around him to support his belief, we too can inspire others to have faith in God’s ability to make the impossible possible, as seen in biblical stories like David and Goliath.

take away we can help each other understand that faith does not always lead to immediate relief or clarity. It teaches the importance of trusting God's promises when facing challenges, encouraging them to persevere when life seems difficult or when the path appears uncertain.

Romans 8:28 KJV 1900

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.

Titus 1:2 KJV 1900

In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;