Mature Faith


ROMANS 4:18-21.


Yesterday, we studied the first of three faith stages. Believers 
should mature past restlessness as their usual response to trials; 
however, we may find ourselves going through one or all of these 
levels when faced with a new or particularly difficult challenge. 
Still, consistent spiritual growth  should lead us to the next two 
faith stages.

Reaching faith is characterized by focus upon the Lord rather than 
upon obstacles or feelings. Instead of battling through nagging 
doubts, this Christian asserts, "I know He can, and I know He will." 
Reaching faith is evident in a life that revolves around God: waiting 
for a prayer answer is okay because
the believer trusts that His Father is faithful to do what He says. 
In the midst of frailties, failures, and sin, a heavenward heart is 
cultivated by means of Scripture meditation and prayer. And God 
honors a heart tuned to Him.

The Christian life is exciting when we reach this stage. It becomes 
an adventure--a chance to see what God will do next, and how He will 
work out a situation.

If you take this lesson to heart, you will look at what has been 
weighing on your mind, and start to pray differently: "God, here's my 
problem,  but I'm focusing on Your sovereignty and Your promises from 
now on." That kind of thinking, practiced consistently, can lead to 
what I call perfect faith, or
resting faith.

Resting faith does not bother with "can" and "will"; a believer who 
is resting confidently in the Lord says, "It's done." With mature 
faith, a believer can move mountains. (Matthew 17:20).