Excerpts for the sermon on October 7, 2007...

You don't need a great deal of faith, just a tiny bit will do.

Five things to consider as the disciples asked Jesus to "increase their faith," faith of unlimited strength, effective faith.

1.  Effective faith depends on God:  We can become too self-sufficient at times in our lives, relying on our own strength rather than on God's.  The disciples request was genuine, reflecting a hunger for more.  Faith, as is conveyed in Scripture is a total dependence on God and a willingness to do his will.  The amount of faith is not as important as is having it.

2.  Effective faith is more concerned with its life rather than its amount:  A mustard seed is small but it is alive and growing.  Like a tiny seed, a small amount of faith in God is all that is needed in order for a root to take hold and grow.  Almost invisible at first, then begins to spread.   Although change is gradual and  imperceptible, soon faith grows.  You see, you don't need a lot - just a little is enough.

3.  Effective faith rests on what Christ has done:  Our faith rests on what Christ has done for us on Calvary. As our friend Paul clearly states in his letter to the Corinthians: faith, hope, and love are at the heart of the Christian message, central at the heart of God.  Hope grows as we learn all that God has in mind for us; it gives us the promise of the future.

4.  Effective faith becomes stronger through endurance:  Our Scriptures ask of us consistently to not abandon our faith in times of trials but rather, to show our faith by endurance.  Faith, as Paul tells us in Hebrews 11:1 "Is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen.  It is evidence of things we cannot see."

5.  Effective faith of unlimited strength is hopeful anticipation:  Two words describe faith:  sure and certain.  Do you remember how you felt when you were young and your birthday party approached?  You were excited and anxious, right?  You knew you would certainly receive gifts and other special treats.  But some things were a surprise.  Faith is like that - it is the conviction based on past experiences that God's new and fresh surprises can be equally ours today.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.

Have a blessed and wonderful week.  Delight yourself in the Lord and he will grant you the desires of your heart.