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.
The doubters are always more blessed than the mere fellow travelers in faith. For they are the only ones who fully learn that their Lord is stronger than any doubt and any hell of despair.
I grew up in a very religious family and it is the motivating force to every thing I do. I am fortunate to have had adults all around me who really lived their faith, in helping other people and doing the best you can do.
Our faith is concentrated in the Son of God, and through him in the Father; and the Holy Ghost is their minister to bring truths to our remembrance, to reveal new truths to us, and teach, guide, and direct the course of every mind, until we become perfected and prepared to go home, where we can see and converse with our Father in Heaven.
I'm not walking by sight- I'm, walking by faith
The Lord discovered to me a sense of my unbelief that, though late, I should remember my transgressions and that I should be converted with my whole heart to the Lord my God.
Faith leads us beyond ourselves. It leads us directly to God.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.