by Rehema Jonathan | 22 June 2021 08:46 pm06
The prophet Elijah demonstrated remarkable faith when he prayed and God sent fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice and defeat his enemies (1 Kings 18:36-38, ESV). Yet, shortly afterward, Elijah fled in fear from Jezebel, a powerful queen who threatened his life (1 Kings 19:1-3). This reveals an important truth: even strong faith can be weakened by fear and circumstances. Elijah’s faith was bold against powerful enemies but faltered when confronted by personal danger. This is like a lion that fears no rival but is terrified by a small dog symbolizing how fear can undermine faith.
Similarly, the apostle Peter shows us the struggle between faith and doubt.
In Matthew 14:24-31 (ESV), when Jesus walked on water toward the disciples during a storm, Peter asked to come to Him. Peter stepped out of the boat in faith and walked on water, but when he saw the strong wind, he became afraid and began to sink. He cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately rescued him and said, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
(Matthew 14:31). Peter’s experience teaches us that initial faith is not enough; faith must be sustained to reach the goal.
This highlights the ongoing nature of faith as a journey (Hebrews 11:1) and a discipline that must endure trials (James 1:2-4). Faith is not a one time event but a continuous reliance on God’s power and promises.
When we first come to Christ, our faith often burns brightly, like a passionate fire (Romans 12:11). But as time passes, many believers experience spiritual dryness or weakening faith. We may remember our earlier zeal praying fervently, witnessing boldly, reading Scripture diligently. Yet if our current faith is weaker, it’s a warning sign. The New Testament exhorts believers to “persevere in the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7) and to “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering” (Hebrews 10:23).
If sins that once seemed easy to overcome now entangle you, or if prayer and Bible reading have become difficult, it’s time to cry out to Jesus for help, just like Peter did. Spiritual warfare is real (Ephesians 6:12), and without active, strong faith, the enemy can gain ground.
Remember, faith is our shield and protection (Ephesians 6:16). Without it, we cannot stand firm against Satan’s schemes.
Take time to evaluate your spiritual walk today. Do you have faith to finish well? If not, remember God’s faithfulness when you first believed (Lamentations 3:22-23). Pray earnestly for renewal of your faith (Psalm 51:10), confess your shortcomings, and commit to obeying God fully. The Lord promises to strengthen those who trust in Him (Isaiah 40:31).
Just as God helped Peter in his moment of doubt, He will help you. Hold fast to your faith until the end.
Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
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