Faithful Examples

Introduction:

            The Christians life is not exempt from the pressures and trials that are common to mankind. In fact, the child of God faces many “faith defying” challenges that do not affect those of the world.

            What do you do when your faith is challenged? Do you put your trust in God? Can yo say to God “Your will be done”? Will your faith stand the test?

            Let us look to the Bible for some great examples of faith from great men of God, find their response to the challenges they faced.

I.    Abraham

      A. Abraham was told to sacrifice his only son

      B. This within itself was a great test of faith

      C. Isaac asked “where is the lamb?” Gen. 22:7,8

      D. Abraham’s response; “God will provide”

            1. That should be our response when all seems lost

            2. God will take care of us Matt. 6:25-34

II.   Caleb

      A. Caleb showed his faith when he was sent with Joshua to spy out Canaan

      B. Now the land has been conquered as he had said it could 45 years ago

      C. Because of his faith then he was promised Hebron

      D. Although inhabited by great men, Caleb knew he could overcome it with the Lord

      E. Josh 14:11,12 

      F. He said, “ Give me this mountain”

III. Jonathon

      A. Israel was at war with the Philistines

      B. Jonathon left the camp with his armor bearer

      C. Coming upon a camp of Philistines Jonathon put his trust in God

      D. 1 Sam. 14:6                  

IV. David

      A. Coming to the Hebrew camp to check on his brethren

      B. David was appalled to see the lack of faith of the Israelites

      C. David challenged Goliath

      D. 1 Sam. 17:37

V. Jehoshaphat

      A. The Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites were coming to invade Judah

      B. Jehoshaphat was king of Judah

      C. Note: 2 Chron. 20:6-12

      D. God delivered

VI. Job

      A. Very few, if any have seen trials like Job

      B. Job 19: 23-29

      C. It seems as if Job has lost everything, but he had his faith

      D. If you have your faith and lose everything else, you have lost nothing

           If  you have everything else and lose your faith, you have nothing.

VII. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego

      A. Commanded to worship the gods of Nebuchadnezzar

      B. Put their trust in God a;nd defied the kings order

      C. When threatened by the king said “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us”

      D. Daniel 3:16-18

VII. Paul

      A Acts 27:5                      

      B. “keep up your courage”, “I  believe God”

      C. Do you really believe in God?

      D. Do you depend on Him to care for you?

      E. He will keep His promise

VIII. Heb. 11:33-40     

      A. These “heroes of faith” are an inspiration and encouragement to me

      B. Even under the threat of great tribulation they looked to God  

      C. Let these great men and women encourage you in your faith    

Conclusion:

      Let us learn from the example of these great men of God. Trial and hardships must come, such is the way of life. It is comforting to know that whatever may happen our God will not forsake us. Trust in Him and He will take care of you

      Give your life to Him today. Obey Him. Serve Him. Trust Him.

 Michael E. Grooms