Facing reality and still trusting God

Humanly speaking it was a hopeless case. There were three facts Abraham had to face. Firstly, he was a very old man, 100 years old. Secondly Sarah his wife was 90 years old, long past childbearing. Thirdly, God had made a promise that he would have a son and that he would become the father of many nations.

Abraham had to face two realities – the reality of his own impossible situation, and the reality of the word of God. Without faith these two realities were incompatible. They didn’t match up and yet against all hope Abraham believed. He didn’t waver in his belief regarding God’s promise. He was absolutely convinced that God had the power to do what He had said He would do.

Before the promise was fulfilled, when it still seemed impossible, Abraham gave glory to God and as he waited for the miracle, instead of doubting, his faith in God grew. God had a bigger picture than Abraham. His plan to redeem humanity was about to begin – all nations of the world would be blessed through the seed of this one righteous man.

In our lives, the word of God and the reality of our situations don’t always match to us. God wants reality not blind faith. He wants children to face things as they are and, despite the circumstances, trust Him with unwavering faith because they truly believe He’s faithful.

The English word for hope means to feel fairly confident something will take place, but it contains an element of doubt. Biblical hope is different. It leaves no room for doubt; it’s inseparable from faith in God. Because of what God has done in the past the Christian can rest absolutely confident that He will fulfil his word. This hope is in God alone.

As you face the reality of your circumstances today, you could be tempted to feel hopeless. Remember that God always has a bigger picture. He works for our individual good but He also works for His own glory and the extension of His kingdom through the lives of those who will trust Him. ‘Many are the plans in a human heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails’(Proverbs 19:21).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank you for the wonderful way you work out your purposes. Thank You that You choose insignificant people to fulfil Your purposes. May I have the grace today and every day to trust You even when circumstances seem hopeless. Make my life count for Your kingdom. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.