With Biblical Faith in God, The Odds Don’t Matter

From the heart of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible Teacher & Expositor. I’m referencing biblical faith (of, relating to, or being in accord with the Bible) as opposed to the Word of Faith movement. As believers in Jesus we must know which one we’re using because with Word of Faith, odds do matter! How do they differ? Biblical faith and the Word of Faith movement differ significantly in their understanding of faith and its relationship to God's character, power and will. Biblical faith emphasizes trust in God's character and promises, while the Word of Faith movement focuses on the assumption of positive declarations and confessions to manipulate circumstances and achieve desired outcomes. In other words, biblical faith gets results, Word of Faith doesn’t. For that reason, with Word of Faith, the odds do matter! Gideon's faith, as depicted in the Book of Judges (chapter 6-8), is a compelling example of biblical faith in God against overwhelming odds. Gideon’s story highlights the key aspect of biblical faith in God is a reliance on God alone, not numbers, positive confessions, or declarations. Let’s examine the odds facing Gideon. Gideon's army was initially 32,000 men strong, facing staggering and overwhelming odds of a massive Midianite force of 135,000 men. However, the odds became more overwhelming when God instructed Gideon to reduce his army significantly, ultimately leaving him with only 300 men! This reduction was strategic, as God wanted to ensure that the victory would be clearly attributed to His power, not the strength of the Israelite army or anything else (positive confessions, speaking things in existence). With biblical faith in God, the odds don’t matter! Biblical faith provides courage to act despite fear. Gideon stepped out in faith, even when faced with seemingly impossible odds. Gideon's story exemplifies biblical faith in God, particularly in the face of overwhelming odds. This narrative highlights the power of trusting in God's power, even when circumstances seem impossible. Gideon's story serves as an inspiring example that God can use anyone to accomplish extraordinary things when they choose to trust in Him and Him ONLY! Be encouraged!