Fight Of Faith

The Fight of Faith: Embracing Victory in Life's Battles

In our journey through life, we often encounter challenges that test our resolve and shake our foundations. It's during these moments that we're called to engage in the fight of faith—a battle that's far from passive, but rather an active and dynamic struggle that shapes our spiritual journey.

Faith is not merely a concept or a feeling; it's a powerful weapon in our spiritual arsenal. As we navigate the complexities of life, faith becomes the battlefield where our deepest convictions are tested and strengthened. It's through this fight that we lay hold of the eternal life to which we've been called, standing firm in the good confession we've made before many witnesses.

Consider the words of 1 Timothy 6:12: "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses." This verse encapsulates the essence of our spiritual struggle—a call to action, a reminder of our purpose, and an encouragement to persevere.

In moments when we feel alone and overwhelmed, faith stands as our constant companion. The apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5:7 that "we walk by faith, not by sight." This truth invites us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and trust in the unseen realities of God's promises.

The pages of scripture are filled with stories that illustrate the power of faith in action. Consider the account in Mark 5:23 of the woman with the issue of blood and Jairus, whose daughter was on the brink of death. These individuals, facing dire circumstances, chose to reach out to Jesus in faith. Their stories remind us that even in our darkest hours, faith can bridge the gap between despair and hope.

Often, we find ourselves living in the "in-between"—those periods of waiting and uncertainty where our faith is put to the test. It's in these moments that we're called to emulate the faith of Abraham, who, as Romans 4:19 tells us, "did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead." Abraham's unwavering trust in God's promises, even in the face of seemingly impossible odds, serves as a powerful example for us today.

When our faith runs low, we can draw inspiration from Sarah, who "received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised" (Hebrews 11:11). Sarah's story teaches us to rely on God's faithfulness rather than our own limitations. It challenges us to stop judging our situations as impossible and instead judge God as faithful.

This shift in perspective is at the heart of what it means to fight the good fight of faith. It's about choosing to express deep gratitude—eucharisteo—even in the midst of challenging circumstances. As believers, we don't fight for victory; we fight from victory. Our battle stance is one of confidence, knowing that in Christ, the ultimate victory has already been won.

In the ebb and flow of life, there will be times when our faith feels strong and times when it wavers. The key is to remain steadfast, not turning to the right or the left, as Proverbs 4:27 advises. We're called to keep our eyes fixed on the prize, remembering that "Length of days is in her right hand, in her left hand riches and honor" (Proverbs 3:16). This imagery reminds us of the blessings that accompany a life lived in faith.

As we engage in this fight of faith, we're not merely surviving; we're being called to arise and thrive. Like the little girl to whom Jesus said, "Talitha cumi" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, arise"), we too are being summoned to new life and vitality through our faith.

The fight of faith is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile. It's a journey that transforms us, strengthens us, and ultimately leads us to victory. Here are some practical ways to engage in this spiritual battle:

1. Stand firm in your convictions: Remember the good confession you've made and hold fast to it, even when challenges arise.

2. Walk by faith, not by sight: Train yourself to look beyond your immediate circumstances and trust in God's bigger picture.

3. Reach out in faith: Like the woman with the issue of blood, don't be afraid to stretch out your hand to Jesus in times of need.

4. Embrace the "in-between": Use periods of waiting as opportunities to strengthen your faith and deepen your trust in God.

5. Consider God faithful: When faced with impossible situations, focus on God's faithfulness rather than your own limitations.

6. Practice gratitude: Cultivate a heart of thanksgiving, even in difficult circumstances, as a way of exercising your faith.

7. Fight from victory: Approach your challenges with the confidence that comes from knowing the ultimate battle has already been won in Christ.

8. Stay the course: Resist the temptation to veer off path, keeping your eyes fixed on the promises of God.

9. Arise in faith: Allow your faith to propel you into new realms of spiritual growth and vitality.

As we engage in the fight of faith, we're not just going through the motions of religious practice. We're participating in a transformative journey that shapes our character, deepens our relationship with God, and impacts the world around us. This fight is not just about personal victory; it's about becoming a living testimony to the power and faithfulness of God.

So, let us take up the mantle of faith with renewed vigor. Let's fight the good fight, not with fear or uncertainty, but with the confidence that comes from knowing we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. In every challenge, every waiting period, and every impossible situation, may our faith rise up, reminding us that with God, all things are possible.

The fight of faith is calling. Will you answer?

Listen to the sermon "Fight Of Faith" by Dr. Louis Kayatin here: Fight Of Faith

Sermons | The Springs

Courtney Ardoin