“and being fully assured that what God had promised, He was able also to perform.” Romans 4:21
Followers of Christ are not immune from the difficulties and sorrows of life. Still, we often wonder why God doesn’t intervene sooner when a challenging situation lingers on. Some who profess Christ begin to feel hopeless or even think that God has forsaken them. Earthly circumstances, however, do not hinder God’s ability to act on our behalf. The question is…will those circumstances hinder our faith or grow it? Do we truly believe that God is able?
Romans 4:21 is speaking of Abraham’s faith regarding God’s promise to provide an heir. As Abraham surveyed his circumstances, they were not favorable. “…he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah’s womb” (v19b).
Yet, pay close attention to what the Bible says about Abraham’s faith. “In hope against hope he believed” (v18); “Without becoming weak in faith…” (v19a); “he did not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith” (v20); “being fully assured that what God promised, He was able to perform” (v21). Abraham’s belief in God’s ability was more than a sentimental gesture. It was substantive faith in the character and nature of God.
You see, this was not the first troubling situation Abraham had faced. The Lord had allowed many other difficulties; circumstances that only He could overcome. And by doing so, God taught Abraham to trust Him. Abraham learned that God is more than capable of handling whatever He allows. As a result, Abraham’s faith grew. And God fulfilled His promise by enabling Abraham and Sarah to have a child well beyond their child-bearing years.
We serve the same God today. The circumstances we face never intimidate or overpower Him. Waiting on the Lord to act is often how we learn to trust. We cannot develop strong, unwavering faith without first exercising it. So yes, God is able; but are you confident in His ability? Is a difficult situation hindering your faith rather than growing it? Be assured. You can trust the One who never breaks a promise; who is never overwhelmed or over-matched. God is able!
