We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight
Faith is believing when you cannot see, and it is in these times that we learn to trust God more.
A.B. Simpson emphasizes the power of faith over sight, illustrating how heavenly songs can break down barriers and bring victory in difficult times, as seen in the stories of Paul and Silas and Jehoshaphat. He encourages believers to recognize that dark seasons are opportunities for faith education, where unseen blessings are being cultivated beneath the surface. Simpson reassures that the night will not last forever, and when morning comes, those who have remained faithful will rejoice in the fulfillment of God's promises. He calls for a deeper trust in God, especially during trials, urging believers to believe even when they cannot see.
Text
There are heavenly notes which have power to break down adamant walls and dissolve difficult mountains. The song of Paul and Silas burst the fetters of the Philippian jail; the choir of Jehoshaphat put to flight the armies of the Ammonites. Even so the song of faith will disperse our adversaries and lift our sinking hearts into strength and victory. Is this a dark hour in your life? Is it the winter of barrenness and gloom? Remember that it is God's chosen time for the education of faith, and that He conceals beneath the surface precious and untold harvests of unthought-of fruit!
It will not always be night.
And when the morning comes and spring spreads its verdant mantle over the barren fields, then we shall be glad that we did not disappoint our Father in the hour of testing, but our faith had already claimed and seen in the distance the glad fruition which sight now beholds. Lord, help me to believe when I cannot see and to learn from my trials to trust Thee more.
Sermon Outline
- Faith in Dark Hours
- Faith and Sight
- Learning to Trust
- Believe when you cannot see
- Learn from trials to trust God more
Key Quotes
“Is this a dark hour in your life? Is it the winter of barrenness and gloom?” — A.B. Simpson
“It will not always be night.” — A.B. Simpson
“Lord, help me to believe when I cannot see and to learn from my trials to trust Thee more.” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- When you're in a dark hour, remember that it's God's chosen time for the education of faith.
- Trust God even when you don't see anything, and He will help you through.
- Learn from your trials to trust God more, and you will be glad that you did not disappoint Him.