Why We Need BIG Faith: Lessons from a Faith Fight in Genesis
Have you ever felt like your prayers are trapped in a soundproof room? You plead for answers, for relief, yet silence hangs heavy. Discouragement creeps in, whispering doubts. But what if your unanswered prayers are the prelude to something extraordinary?
The story of Rebekah in Genesis 25 offers a glimpse into this reality. For years, she and Isaac longed for a child, their prayers seemingly unanswered. Yet, when their pleas were finally heard, joy turned to confusion. The Bible tells us the babies in Rebekah’s womb struggled fiercely (v. 22). Despondent, Rebekah cried out, “Why is this happening to me?” (v. 22).
But God’s answer was far from what she expected. He revealed that Rebekah wasn’t just carrying one child, but “two nations” locked in conflict within her (v. 23)! This twist throws us into the heart of Rebekah’s faith fight. Her struggle wasn’t just about having a child, it was about carrying the seeds of a future far grander than she could have imagined.
The Faith Fight: A Battle Within
Rebekah’s story is a metaphor for the faith fight within each of us. We’re constantly pulled between the the “two nations” within: the culture familiar to the world amd the Kingdom culture God calls us to. This battle plays out in our daily lives: our spirit wants to pray but our flesh wants sleep, our spirit wants to worship but our flesh wants to worry.
Feeding the Flesh vs. Nourishing the Spirit
The Bible tells us, “The twin you feed will be the twin that leads” (paraphrase from v. 23). Just like Rebekah, we have a choice. We can choose to feed the flesh with its temporary desires, or we can nourish the spirit with God’s Word and prayer. Here are some practical steps to win the faith fight and grow your spirit in Christianity:
- Live in Expectation: Believe that God is working in your situation, even when things are tough (v. 21).
- Embrace the Battle: Faith is a fight, but it’s worth it (v. 22).
- Hold Onto God’s Promises: His Word is your weapon (v. 23).
- Refuse to Settle for Small: You are carrying something bigger than yourself (v. 23).
- Feed Your Spirit: Prioritize prayer, worship, and daily engagement with God’s Word.
Conclusion
Rebekah’s faith fight wasn’t easy, but it led to a legacy that continues to this day. Remember, your faith fight is part of a bigger story. Don’t get discouraged by the struggle. Keep your eyes on the prize and refuse to live small! Let’s go beyond “normal” and embrace the exceptional together!