“In hope against hope Abraham believed that he would become a father of many nations, as he had been promised [by God]: “SO [numberless] SHALL YOUR DESCENDANTS BE.” 19Without becoming weak in faith he considered his own body, now as good as dead [for producing children] since he was about a hundred years old, and [he considered] the deadness of Sarah’s womb. 20But he did not doubt or waver in unbelief concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and empowered by faith, giving glory to God, 21being fully convinced that God had the power to do what He had promised.” Romans 4:18-21 AMP

Our verse today starts with an interesting statement; “in hope against hope…” Have you ever been in one of those situations where hope seemed hopeless? God promised Abraham that he would have an heir but both himself and his wife were far past the time of producing a child. Not only was there a promise of one child but “…so numberless shall your descendants be.” Abraham was faced with an important decision, whose report will you believe? 100 years old, wife barren for years, we read that “Without becoming weak in faith…” What was weakness in his body became strength in his spirit. Abraham refused to see the physical reality before him that God could not deliver on His promise. As you read on you will see the reality of his faith.

“But he did not doubt or waver in unbelief concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and empowered by faith, giving glory to God, 21being fully convinced that God had the power to do what He had promised.” Romans 4:20-21 AMP

WOW! Not only was he not discouraged but he allowed the physically impossible to strengthen and empower his walk with God! Oh how that it might be with us as we walk through the difficult seeming impossible circumstances of our lives! The key to his success is mentioned at the end of the verses.

“being fully convinced that God had the power to do what He had promised.” Romans 4:18-21 AMP

The word convinced is the Greek word meaning “to bring to full measure or to have the ability to meet the obligation completely.”  Abraham’s faith is completely certain of the full agreement between God’s promise and His power, which can call into being things which are not, awaken what is dead to life, and give Abraham a posterity. This should give us great hope as the Bible is filled with great and glorious promises if we would but be “fully convinced” of His ability to deliver on His Word! This is the reason that Satan continually attacks faith in the life of the believer. In the garden Satan went after the Word of God twisting the meaning and convincing them that God was misleading them. Jesus gave us the promise that the gates of hell would not prevail against the church. That means that the only thing Satan can leverage is our thought-life! If he can convince us that God is not able to deliver on His promises, then we will be paralyzed by fear and doubt. Paul gave us the key for this success.

“And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].” Romans12:2 AMP

Renewing our minds involves replacing worldly perspectives with God-centered truths. We achieve this by immersing ourselves in Scripture, meditating in it, and allowing it to shape our thoughts and actions. The more we meditate on it, the more our thoughts align with God’s will, leading to a transformed, impactful life!

I pray that today you take time to renew your mind and thoughts in the Word of God. What great and glorious things He has in store for those who would believe! Have a blessed day, Pastor Ken