Jonathan’s act of faith in I Samuel 14 is what started the whole domino effect of the passage. He knew that his plan on the surface was futile, the Israelites were ill-equipped to come against the Philistine army, etc. Yet, his faith and his armor-bearer urged him on. God doesn’t need our acts of faith, but he doesn’t tend to act without it. Faith, not need, doubt, or fear moves God. (Mark 2:5)
Back to the story, vs. 15 says . . . And there was a panic in the camp, in the field, and among all the people. The garrison and even the raiders trembled, the earth quaked, and it became a very great panic. When He saw Jonathan’s faith, the earth quaked and there was panic, the enemy scattered.
Hebrews 11:6 states, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Let’s face it – believing in a God we cannot see and believing that He is who He says He takes faith! Faith strengthens us, produces patience in us, fuels what we do, and encourages us. We are made right with God through belief and faith in Jesus, God’s Son, and this is the foundation we build on.
Oswald Chambers said, “God brings you to places, among people, and into certain conditions to accomplish a definite purpose…” Then you and I choose to take a risk, a leap of faith, and God gives us the courage and strength to accomplish the mission as Jonathon did. Verse 23, “So the Lord saved Israel that day. And the battle passed beyond Beth-aven.”
Can you think of a time when you felt the Holy Spirit nudging you to take a step of faith into unknown territory, only to find when you did, He went before you to prepare the way? I took a step of faith out of my comfort zone over 14 years ago that led me to this position at EFCC working with/for the Senior Pastor (now Lead Pastor) which has been a very great blessing and adventure I certainly couldn’t have imagined. I’m forever grateful for our merciful, loving, heavenly Father who cares about each and every one of his children and honors even the tiniest mustard seed of faith.
Deb Hill