In a world dominated by logic, science, and instant gratification, many wonder if faith has become obsolete. Does it still have a place in our modern, post-Christian society? This question lies at the heart of our inaugural Faith Forward podcast episode, where Reverend Ebenezer and our host explore the enduring relevance of faith in today’s complex reality.
The Three Dimensions of Practical Faith
Reverend Ebenezer presents a powerful framework for understanding faith through three distinct yet interconnected dimensions:
Saving Faith forms the foundation-it’s our entry point into a relationship with God. This is where transformation begins through repentance and acceptance of God’s lordship. It’s the starting line of our spiritual journey.
Walking Faith represents our daily trust in God for protection, provision, and guidance. This is the faith that empowers us to face each day’s challenges, believing that God walks with us through every valley and mountain.
Working Faith involves believing God for supernatural intervention. This faith requires stepping out in risk, trusting God for miracles and breakthroughs that defy natural explanation.
As Reverend Ebenezer insightfully notes, “Faith is not escapism. Your reality is still there, but you have to have confidence in the supernatural provision to give you promotion, provision, and protection.”
Faith as Assurance, Not Denial
The conversation centers around Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” This scripture reminds us that faith isn’t about denying reality but about believing in a supernatural God who can intervene within that reality.
The Stockdale Paradox was referenced to emphasize this crucial distinction: “You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality.”
The Mustard Seed Principle
One of the most encouraging insights from our discussion was the reminder that faith doesn’t need to be perfect or massive to be effective. Drawing from Jesus’ parable of the mustard seed, Reverend Ebenezer explained that even the smallest faith, when exercised, can grow into something powerful and life-changing.
This principle encourages us to start where we are, with the faith we have, rather than waiting for some ideal level of belief before stepping out.
A Testimony of Walking Faith
The podcast features a powerful personal testimony from Reverend Ebenezer’s university days when he faced paralysis. Through immense pain and repeated effort, exercising his faith step by step, he eventually walked again. This story beautifully illustrates what it means to “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).
His experience demonstrates that faith isn’t a one-time event but a daily practice of trusting God through both small steps and giant leaps.
Practical Steps for Your Faith Journey
How can we apply these insights to our daily lives? Here are practical steps to strengthen your faith:
1. Start Small: Begin by exercising your faith in minor situations. Pray for small needs to build confidence for larger challenges.
2. Anchor in Scripture: Base your faith on God’s promises found in the Bible, especially when taking risks or facing uncertainty.
3. Embrace Practical Wisdom: Faith doesn’t exclude seeking medical help, therapy, or using practical means. As Reverend Ebenezer stated, “Medicine is God’s way of helping people.”
4. Step Out of Your Boat: Like Peter walking on water, true faith requires taking risks. “You will not see great miracles. You will not see great breakthroughs. You won’t see God at work in your life unless you are ready to take a major risk.”
Reconciling Science and Faith
A particularly enlightening moment addressed the relationship between science and faith. Reverend Ebenezer shared, “Science is confirming God… Science is rather catching up with God. Science is not in conflict.” This perspective helps bridge the gap many feel between intellectual understanding and spiritual belief.
Join Our Growing Community
The Faith Forward podcast is more than just a listening experience-it’s about building a community of believers supporting each other in practical faith. We invite you to join this journey of discovery and growth.
Reflection Questions for Your Journey:
• Which type of faith (saving, walking, or working) do you find easiest to exercise?
• Can you recall a “mustard seed” moment where small faith led to significant outcomes?
• What “boat of comfort” might God be calling you to step out of today?
Listen to the full conversation on our Faith Forward podcast available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms. Follow us on social media to continue the conversation and join our growing community of faith-forward believers.
Closing Thought: You are not a product of chance. You are created with purpose. To define that purpose, you must seek to understand and work with the supernatural God, allowing Him to intervene in your everyday life. Keep shining, keep growing, and never stop walking in the light.
