I am always challenged by Jesus’ statement, “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these because I am going to the Father.” John 14:12 If I were in church right now, I would say, “Somebody shout ‘Whoever Believes.’” This is not for the super-apostles – the life of faith is for all of us! I am often amazed at those who would argue about what the greater works are, but I like to think of it like this – don’t try to worry about algebra or calculus until you’ve learned basic math. Sometimes I say it like this, “don’t try to bench 500 pounds if you haven’t bench pressed 100 pounds yet.” I believe we should focus our efforts on what Jesus did, and then we can concern ourselves with the greater things that we can be doing.

Moses, Joseph, David, and many other great leaders of the past inspire me to fight the good fight of faith. If they conquered by faith, so can I! Our God is the same yesterday, today, and forever! If he could use those leaders of the past who failed and made great mistakes, he can also use any of us who are willing to believe!

Hebrews 13:7-8  Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

You probably remember the story in the book of Mark where the disciples were trying to cast the devil out of the boy but couldn’t. In desperation, the boy’s father came to Jesus and said, “Have mercy on us and help us, if you can.” The response of Jesus was astounding! He replied to the father of the demon-possessed boy by saying, “What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.” The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” Mark 9:22b-24 NLT 

Oh, my dear friend, do you see it? Jesus did not say everything is possible for me because I believe, but rather, “anything is possible if a person (any person) believes.” This means that anyone who believes will see the results that Jesus experienced if they truly believe.

Maybe it is time for you to take a stroll through history and consider those who’ve gone before. Mind-boggling things happen through those who simply believed! Maybe you are facing challenges in your life right now that seem like impassable mountains. I want to assure you that with God, all things are possible! Are you tempted to be afraid or depressed because of what’s going on? Has hurt or bitterness snuck in trying to wreak havoc in your emotions.

No matter what you’re facing, I want you to know that this is not the end; on the contrary, this is your moment to see the glory of God revealed! Since others have gone through similar things and came out on the other side as a conqueror, so can you! You are not a victim – you are a Victor! I believe what God wants from us today is to take a close look at those great leaders of the past and…

Imitate Their Faith