STANDING BY FAITH

Title: STANDING BY FAITH, NOT MINDING THE SITUATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Hebrews 11:1
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Supporting Texts:
Romans 4:18-21
2 Corinthians 5:7
Isaiah 43:2
Matthew 14:28-31
Habakkuk 3:17-19

INTRODUCTION:
Faith is the believer's anchor in challenging times. It is not dependent on what is seen or felt but on God’s Word and promises. True faith enables us to stand firm, regardless of the situation, knowing that God is faithful. This sermon explores how to stand by faith in the midst of trials, trusting God to bring us through victoriously.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE NATURE OF FAITH

Faith is the foundation for standing strong in every situation.

a) Faith Is Confidence in God:
It is believing that God will do what He has promised (Hebrews 11:6).

b) Faith Is Beyond Sight:
Walking by faith means trusting God even when we cannot see the outcome (2 Corinthians 5:7).

c) Faith Is a Shield Against Doubt:
It protects us from the fiery darts of the enemy (Ephesians 6:16).

d) Faith Is Rooted in God’s Word:
Faith comes by hearing and understanding the Word of God (Romans 10:17).

Biblical Example:
Abraham believed God’s promise of a son, even when it seemed impossible (Romans 4:18-21).

2. STANDING BY FAITH IN DIFFICULT TIMES

Faith does not eliminate challenges but gives strength to endure them.

a) Faith Stands Firm in Trials:
God’s strength enables us to remain steadfast (James 1:2-4).

b) Faith Defies Fear:
It reminds us that God is greater than any situation (Isaiah 41:10).

c) Faith Waits on God’s Timing:
It trusts in God’s perfect plan and schedule (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

d) Faith Trusts in God’s Presence:
Even in the fire or the flood, God is with us (Isaiah 43:2).

Biblical Example:
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood by faith in the fiery furnace and were delivered (Daniel 3:16-27).

3. THE POWER OF FAITH TO CHANGE CIRCUMSTANCES

Faith activates the power of God to work in and through us.

a) Faith Moves Mountains:
With faith, the impossible becomes possible (Mark 11:23-24).

b) Faith Overcomes the World:
It is our victory over the challenges of life (1 John 5:4).

c) Faith Receives God’s Promises:
Every promise of God is fulfilled by faith (Hebrews 6:12).

d) Faith Provokes Divine Intervention:
God honours those who trust Him fully (2 Chronicles 20:20).

Biblical Example:
The woman with the issue of blood was healed because of her faith (Mark 5:25-34).

4. HINDRANCES TO STANDING BY FAITH

Recognising and overcoming obstacles that weaken faith is vital.

a) Doubt and Unbelief:
These prevent us from receiving from God (James 1:6-7).

b) Fear and Anxiety:
Fear is the enemy of faith, but perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18).

c) Negative Confessions:
Words contrary to faith hinder its power (Proverbs 18:21).

d) Impatience:
Lack of patience can lead to losing faith in God’s timing (Hebrews 10:36).

Biblical Example:
Peter began to sink when he doubted while walking on water (Matthew 14:28-31).

5. BUILDING AND MAINTAINING STRONG FAITH

Faith must be nurtured to remain strong, especially in challenging situations.

a) Feed on God’s Word:
The Word is the source of faith (Psalm 119:105).

b) Stay in Prayer and Worship:
Prayer strengthens faith and keeps us connected to God (Philippians 4:6-7).

c) Surround Yourself with Believers:
Fellowship builds faith and encourages perseverance (Hebrews 10:25).

d) Confess God’s Promises Boldly:
Speak faith-filled words over your life and situation (Romans 10:10).

Biblical Example:
Joshua and Caleb maintained their faith in God’s promises despite the negative report of others (Numbers 14:6-9).

CONCLUSION:
Faith is the key to overcoming life’s challenges and standing firm in any situation. It shifts our focus from the circumstances to God’s unchanging promises. As we trust Him, regardless of what we face, we position ourselves to see His power manifest in our lives. Let us resolve to stand by faith, not minding the situation, for we serve a faithful God who never fails.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, strengthen my faith to stand firm in every situation.

2. Father, help me to walk by faith and not by sight.

3. Lord, remove every doubt and unbelief in my heart.

4. Father, give me grace to trust Your timing and plan for my life.

5. Lord, let my faith provoke divine intervention in my circumstances.

6. Father, help me to declare Your promises boldly over my life.

7. Lord, keep me steadfast in faith, even in trials.

8. Father, shield my heart from fear and anxiety.

9. Lord, let my faith grow stronger through Your Word and prayer.

10. Father, let my life testify of the power of standing by faith.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that your faith will not fail, no matter the challenge.

2. You will stand strong in faith and see the salvation of the Lord.

3. Every mountain before you is removed by the power of faith.

4. You will receive divine intervention in your situation.

5. Your faith will bring healing, restoration, and breakthroughs.

6. No fear or doubt will overpower your trust in God.

7. You are victorious through faith in Christ Jesus.

8. The promises of God will manifest in your life by faith.

9. Your faith will provoke supernatural testimonies.

10. You will walk by faith and not by sight, overcoming every obstacle.