Deep Faith
True faith is developed through testing and trusting in God's goodness, even in difficult circumstances.
Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of facing trials and challenges in life, comparing them to sailing in the sea where every wind, whether north, south, east, or west, can lead us towards a blessed destination if we keep our faith strong. He emphasizes the need to seek God's guidance and protection in the midst of life's storms, quoting an old Cornishman's prayer to be sent out to the deep waters where victory can be achieved. Cowman also highlights the significance of having genuine faith that endures trials, as mere fair-weather faith is insufficient.
Text
"They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; these see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep" (Ps. 107:23, 24).
He is but an apprentice and no master in the art, who has not learned that every wind that blows is fair for Heaven. The only thing that helps nobody, is a dead calm. North or south, cast or west, it matters not, every wind may help towards that blessed port. Seek one thing only: keep well out to sea, and then have no fear of stormy winds. Let our prayer be that of an old Cornishman: "O Lord, send us out to sea--out in the deep water. Here we are so close to the rocks that the first bit of breeze with the devil, we are all knocked to pieces. Lord, send us out to sea--out in the deep water, where we shall have room enough to get a glorious victory."--Mark Guy Pearse.
Remember that we have no more faith at any time than we have in the hour of trial. All that will not bear to be tested is mere carnal confidence. Fair-weather faith is no faith.--C. H. Spurgeon
Sermon Outline
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Faith in the Deep
- Recognizing God's Works
- Understanding the Nature of Faith
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Faith in the Storm
- The Importance of Testing Faith
- The Difference Between Carnal Confidence and True Faith
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Faith in the Journey
- Seeking God's Guidance
- Embracing the Unknown with Confidence
Key Quotes
“He is but an apprentice and no master in the art, who has not learned that every wind that blows is fair for Heaven.” — Charles E. Cowman
“Let our prayer be that of an old Cornishman: 'O Lord, send us out to sea--out in the deep water.'” — Charles E. Cowman
“Fair-weather faith is no faith.--C. H. Spurgeon” — Charles E. Cowman
Application Points
- Pray for faith by asking God to send you out into the deep water, where you can experience a glorious victory.
- Recognize that you have no more faith at any time than you have in the hour of trial.
- Seek to understand the nature of faith and how it differs from carnal confidence.