Faith's most severe tests come not when we see nothing, but when we see a stunning array of evidence that seems to prove our faith vain.
Interpretation
Faith is challenged when faced with contradicting evidence that tests our beliefs.
This quote by Elisabeth Elliot expresses the idea that true faith is often tested not during times of doubt or despair, but rather when we are confronted with compelling evidence that contradicts our beliefs. It highlights the struggle of maintaining faith in the face of overwhelming proof that may suggest our beliefs are futile, suggesting that the essence of faith lies in persistently believing despite such challenges.
In practice
A pastor could use this quote during a sermon to inspire congregants facing difficulties in their beliefs.
We are not asked to SEE," said Amy. "Why need we when we KNOW?" We know--not the answer to the inevitable Why, but the incontestable fact that it is for the best. "It is an irreparable loss, but is it faith at all if it is 'hard to trust' when things are entirely bewildering?
Prayer lays hold of God's plan and becomes the link between His will and its accomplishment on earth. Amazing things happen, and we are given the privilege of being the channels of the Holy Spirit's prayer.
What sort of world might it have been if Eve had refused the servants offer and had said to him instead, βlet me not be like God. Let me be what I was made to be - let me be a woman'?
Worship is not an experience. Worship is an act, and this takes discipline. We are to worship ''in spirit and in truth.'' Never mind about the feelings. We are to worship in spite of them.
Restlessness and impatience change nothing except our peace and joy. Peace does not dwell in outward things, but in the heart prepared to wait trustfully and quietly on Him who has all things safely in His hands.
If your goal is purity of heart, be prepared to be thought very odd.
My goal is GOD HIMSELF. Not joy, not peace, not even blessing but HIMSELF...my GOD.
People who are obsessed with Jesus aren't consumed with their personal safety and comfort above all else. Obsessed people care more about God's kingdom coming to this earth than their own lives being shielded from pain or distress.
God's guidance will require patience on our part. His leading is not usually a direct assurance, a revelation, but His sovereign controlling of the circumstances of our lives, with the Word of God as our rule. It is therefore, inevitable that the unfolding of His purposes will take time - sometimes a very long time.
No harm can come to me since, in whatever happens, I see only the tender hand of Jesus.
Small numbers make no difference to God. There is nothing small if God is in it.
Even when things are getting worse instead of better - I believe God!
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