Rev. Brian K. Brown, Pastor, St. Mark M.B. Church
Sermon: “Facing What’s Forward” | Scripture Reference: Hebrews 11: 8-10
Facing what is forward in faith continues as our topic of discussion, and a model found in the life of another Biblical figure, Abraham. Walking synchronously, the narrative of Abraham’s life experiences in moving forward allows us to capture the awareness of three essential points that will prove beneficial if we practice and execute these with assurance.
First, let’s begin by expressing the fundamental idea that no matter where you are in this journey, facing what is forward in life will present unpredictable and unprecedented moments and will require FAITH to manage them. In the anchoring scripture, we uncover these details from Abraham’s life; acknowledging progression is often considered complex when there is not an itinerary to follow. In other words, when there are moments of uncertainty or “never before” experiences, what does one do? The simple answer, of course, is to trust God! Hebrews 11: 8- 10 explains Abraham was asked to leave the familiar and go out into the unfamiliar or unknown, which led him to a closer walk with God. Again, how do we answer what is needed to handle the obscure, unknown moments that come up in our lives:
Point 1: We Need Faith
“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 whether he went.” (Hebrews 11:8) In this life, you and I will find uncertain and unknown moments in terms of the outcomes or decisions. These moments are opportunities to be faithful; God knows our path, let’s look to Him, and exercise our faith.
Point 2: We Need Fight
“By faith, he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange county, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs of the same promise.” (Hebrews 11:9) God is certainly able and does what is not within our capacity to do; however, He still requires our participation in moving ahead. Thus, here is the tricky part of life, we have two options flight or fight, and when opposition arises, it is easier to flee than fight. Which is to say, we as humans like things easy, less friction, familiar, and without recourse.
Conversely, God is looking for us to fight the good fight with faith. God’s promises are not behind us; they are unquestionably in front of us! More, God wants us to have enough “fight” within our faith to be willing to go far and wide through the challenging places to follow Him. Let us find ourselves confident in our faith and not our feelings; God will make a way somehow!
Point 3: We Need Focus
“For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” (Hebrew 11: 10) This scripture allows us to consider the reality that Abraham was living in a tent but trusting God would provide a more permanent place to dwell. This realization will enable us to see the necessity for focusing on our circumstances’ temporary and eternal outcomes. It is safe to say we can become too focused on where we are currently and neglect to focus on what we are pursuing. But, again, learning from Abraham helps us stay connected to being faithful that God will help us reach what is bigger, better, and brighter for our lives.
To conclude, our lives are in the Master’s hands, and He knows our path. God has provided examples and testimonials through the lives of Noah and now Abraham, among others, to guide us in taking successful steps that lead us to a closer connection with Him. Our forward moments of change will be aided by our faith, fight, and focus. Considering these points discussed, know that God Almighty is at work on our behalf, He loves us, He desires excellent outcomes from our existence. Finally, know that God is our present help and able to keep us!
Join us Sunday mornings in the sanctuary or via live stream on YouTube @ St Mark MBC at 10:20 for Sunday School, worship service at 10:45 a.m., and bible study on Wednesdays @ 7:00 p.m.
