Facing Our Fear With FaithEsimerkki

Honesty and God’s Sovereignty

Have you ever encountered individuals who claim to have a strong faith, yet their demeanor seems distant and uncaring regarding real-life struggles? Many mistakenly believe that understanding God’s sovereignty should shield us from experiencing fear, burdens, or despair. That is an erroneous and flawed assumption. In truth, some who have not fully grasped the implications of God’s sovereignty often exhibit more warmth, compassion, and encouragement than those who claim to have a deep understanding. The fault does not lie in the teachings themselves but in our flawed comprehension of their transformative power.

Consider the prophet Habakkuk, who questioned deeply. Were his beliefs deficient? Did he lack understanding? No. Such notions are unfounded. Habakkuk was genuine and honest. He did not wear a mask or act out a predetermined response. He authentically confronted the challenges threatening his faith and confessed his fears.

We, too, may likewise face the challenges to our faith. Trials may elicit fear, force us to question our convictions and demand an honest response. Despite trusting in God’s plans and ultimate victory, we must acknowledge our own human frailties, trembles, and quivering lips. Habakkuk’s honesty is an inspiration—a reminder that we can be truthful about our struggles without compromising our faith.

A response to avoid is resignation—a fatalistic surrender to circumstances. Such surrender is not faith; it merely accepts the inevitable without seeking God’s transformative power. The Holy Spirit and the Word of God encourage us to rise above resignation. We should not settle for passive acceptance but trust that God desires to work deeply within our hearts, minds, and lives, offering peace that surpasses all understanding.

Perhaps you find yourself grappling with a serious illness or a strained relationship within your family. Maybe there is another fear-inducing situation you face. Know this: God wants to accomplish something profound within you that far exceeds resignation. He calls us to authentic faith, to acknowledge our fears while trusting in His divine providence.

In a world where some choose emotional distance, we cultivate an honest faith. Let us shatter the illusions of stoic faith and embrace the reality of our humanness. True faith is not incompatible with fear, burdens, or despair. Instead, our genuine responses become a testament to God’s power. May we approach life’s challenges with humility, acknowledging our limitations yet trusting in God’s limitless power. Let us be known for authenticity and unwavering faith, not for masks or pretenses.