CONTRARY TO HOPE

Introduction:

A. By Faith…

1. We please God.

2. We accomplish God’s work.

B. By Faith We Hope.

Body: Hebrews 11: 11, 12

I. God Promised.

A. Abraham laughed (Genesis 17: 15 – 21).

B. Sarah laughed (Genesis 18: 10 – 14).

C. God produced (Genesis 21: 1 – 7).

II. Contrary To Hope (Romans 4: 16 – 21).

A. He believed God.

1. He trusted and had faith in God.

2. Believed in God’s power to overcome the odds.

3. He saw the unseen over the seen.

a. Did not focus on event being "naturally" impossible.

b. Appreciated the ability of the Creator to "fix."

B. Hope in a hopeless situation.

1. There was no hope for Abraham and Sarah.

2. Physically impossible to conceive.

3. Abraham did not doubt God.

a. His faith did not waver.

b. He did not give up trying to conceive.

III. Rewards Of Faith.

A. They received strength.

1. God’s power and healing overshadowed them.

2. God enabled them to accomplish this task.

B. They received the promises.

1. A son was born to them.

2. Their descendants multiplied greatly.

C. They are examples of faith.

Conclusion:

A. Have You Given Up Hope?

1. Do you think it is impossible for you to ever change?

2. Do you think there is no way you could ever do something?

3. Do you feel like you are hopelessly stuck.

B. Have You Lost Faith In God’s Power?