Living in Increase (Part 5) - Increase in FaithSample

Substance of Things Hoped For

Hope can be defined as a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen or to achieve a desired outcome.

As Christians, we hope in God for things to go as we desire. We may desire a better life, job, or financial breakthrough. We may want to overcome a health issue. Placing hope in someone takes faith, but having faith takes trust. To trust someone, you have to have a relationship with them.

Relationships take time, work, perseverance, and patience. With the hustle and bustle of life, it can be daunting to take the time to form a relationship with God, but it can be done. It has to be done.

Can God do what the Scriptures say He can do?

Can God help me to overcome my unforgiveness?

Can God reach my wayward child?

Do I know Him well enough to trust Him, to have faith in Him, and to hope in Him?

Evidence is proof of what has happened, but faith is the evidence of things not seen with the natural eye. Still, we see through our belief that what we are hoping for will happen. This belief is faith, for the very act of salvation is done in faith, receiving a gift we cannot earn or see. Still, by faith, we receive it.

Anthony Gantt

Action Step: Take notes from a sermon or Christian podcast this week. Review your notes and see how your learning could help you trust God more.