Faith and Patience
Faith and Patience5
His Anointing (1 Samuel 16, 17)
By A.W. Pink0GEN 12:31SA 2:81SA 16:13PSA 12:1PSA 45:6ISA 59:19LUK 21:26ACT 2:30EPH 1:11HEB 6:12A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of David's anointing in 1 Samuel 16 and 17, illustrating how it represents God's grace amidst Israel's spiritual decline. He highlights that David's rise to kingship foreshadows Christ, the ultimate Anointed One, and underscores the importance of faith and patience in the face of trials. Pink draws parallels between David's anointing and Christ's, noting that both endured suffering before their exaltation. He encourages believers to trust in God's promises and to seek His guidance in times of darkness, reminding them that God's grace is sufficient for those who truly rely on Him.
Speedily, Though Bearing Long
By Andrew Murray0LUK 18:1JAS 5:7Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of persevering prayer, illustrating that while God is eager to answer our prayers, His timing often requires patience and faith. He explains that the delay in answers is not due to God's unwillingness but rather His long-suffering nature, which allows for spiritual growth and readiness. Murray encourages believers to maintain a confident and persistent attitude in prayer, trusting that every prayer has an effect and contributes to the eventual answer. He draws parallels between the agricultural process and spiritual growth, highlighting that just as crops require time to mature, so do our prayers need time to bear fruit. Ultimately, he reassures that God will respond speedily to those who cry out to Him day and night.
Sixteenth Lesson. ‘Speedily, Through Bearing Long;’ Or, the Power of Persevering Prayer
By Andrew Murray0LUK 18:1JAS 5:7Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of persevering prayer, illustrating that while God is eager to bless His children, answers may not come immediately. He encourages believers to maintain faith and patience, understanding that God's timing is perfect and that every prayer contributes to the eventual answer. Murray draws parallels between the growth of crops and spiritual maturity, highlighting that just as a farmer waits for the harvest, so must believers wait for God's promises to be fulfilled. He reassures that God is long-suffering and will respond speedily to those who persist in prayer, urging the faithful to trust in God's timing and to continue praying without losing heart.
He Said to Abiathar the Priest,
By F.B. Meyer01SA 23:9PSA 25:5PSA 32:8PSA 37:7PRO 3:5ISA 30:21ISA 40:31MAT 7:7ROM 8:28JAS 1:5F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance in times of distress, as exemplified by David's reliance on the ephod during a crisis when his men considered stoning him. Despite the pressure to act quickly, David consistently inquired of the Lord, demonstrating his commitment to divine direction over human wisdom. Meyer encourages believers to wait for God's answers, which may come through various means, including circumstances and wise counsel. He reassures that those who wait on God will not be ashamed, as He will guide the meek in judgment and reveal their paths. The sermon highlights the significance of faith and patience in discerning God's will.
Hints on Prayer
By George Mueller0MAT 7:7George Mueller emphasizes the importance of prayer, encouraging believers to bring their burdens to God, who is intimately aware of their struggles. He highlights that prayer should be in accordance with God's will, in the name of Jesus, and with faith in God's willingness to respond. Mueller reminds the congregation that persistence in prayer is crucial, as answers may take time, and encourages them to wait patiently for God's timing. He shares personal experiences of waiting for answers to prayer, reinforcing the idea that God delights in blessing His children. Ultimately, Mueller presents prayer and faith as the universal remedy for life's difficulties.