“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)
Read Hebrews 11:1-16
In order to tap the endless resources of God, the believer must exercise faith by acting in obedience to God’s Word. As the Apostle Paul explained to the Romans, “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17, NKJV). When one is prompted by the Word of God or by the leadership of the Spirit, obedience to that prompting is an expression of faith. Such a response enables one to enter into partnership with God, and gives the assurance of success even though the end may not be in sight.
When Noah was directed by God to build an ark, he obeyed by starting a project which lasted for 100 years. Noah had never experienced a flood, nor had he even seen rain, yet he obeyed with regard only for the Lord. Since the command of God came without a specific schedule, Noah had to believe and act accordingly because faith has no time limit.
Hebrews 11:7 (NIV) says that Noah, “when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family.” The fear was not fright, but a deep and abiding respect for the Lord and a confidence in His Word. Faith was the only reasonable response for Noah, as it is for us today. As we look to the church’s future we can’t see it perfectly, but we can know that God will honor our obedience to Him in the commitments we make.
Encourage each member of your family or devotional group to ask, “Lord, what do you want me to do in our generosity initiative?” Whatever His leading, respond in faith.