What does it mean to have faith? The Lord has recently brought to my memory Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (KJV). We usually focus on the first part of the scripture about “things hoped for,” but the Lord has really caused me to dive deep into the second part of the verse: “the evidence of things not seen.”
He has spoken to me that the body of Christ too often gives up when we don’t see instant change. We pray, fast, read the Word, and then when we don’t see answers to our prayers right away, we give up. We start questioning God and become discouraged, doubting that He hears us. However, Hebrews 11:1 encourages us to keep the faith when we don’t see things changing. You may get attacked from every direction, but the Lord is working on your behalf, even though you might not see it. When you walk through the valley, the Lord will be with you (Ps. 23:4). Satan also knows when to attack you: when you’re struggling in your faith.
These are the areas in which Satan will attack you; but remember, you have God’s promises to see you through:
Physical: When you’re battling physically due to illness, you need to cling to the Word and God’s promises for your healing. Isaiah 53:5 says, “He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (KJV). The Lord will give you the strength to keep pressing forward. Isaiah 40:31 says, “They who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (KJV).
Emotional: When Satan comes at your mind and confuses you, claim Second Corinthians 12:9: “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (KJV). The Lord will not leave you or forsake you. The Lord will give you peace over your emotions and calm you. Second Thessalonians 3:16 encourages us, saying, “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all” (KJV). You do not need to fear because God is right beside you. Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness” (KJV).
Relational: Satan is out to steal, kill, and destroy your family (Jn.10:10). However, the Lord wants to give you the desires of your heart to see your family whole and happy. Declare Psalms 37:4: “Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of your heart” (KJV). The Lord wants you to live an abundant life. That includes the life of your family, whether it is with your husband, children, siblings, or parents.
Financial: There are times when financial attacks come. It is easy to allow fear to creep in and cause you to worry and stress that your bills won’t be paid and that you will lose your job or lose your home. Nevertheless, you need to trust the Lord to provide. He encourages us in Psalms 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth” (KJV). Trust that God wants His children to prosper in all areas of their lives. First John 4:4 says, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world” (KJV). If you’re not sure where to turn or which way to go, He promises to direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (KJV). God is with you in every situation, every struggle that you face. Joshua 1:9 reminds us: “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest” (KJV).
When you begin to feel that God isn’t working on your behalf in situations because you’re not seeing changes, DON’T GIVE UP! Know that God is always working things out for your good (Rom. 8:28). Just as a father wants the best for his children, so does your heavenly Father! So be encouraged and cling to the Lord and His promises in every situation.
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