It Is What It Is But It's Not What It Seems
Digest
This sermon by Pastor Furtick centers on the concept of "functional faith," a faith actively lived out rather than passively believed. He uses the book of Romans and Abraham's life as a primary example, highlighting how faith involves honestly acknowledging difficult realities ("it is what it is") while simultaneously trusting in God's power to change them ("but it's not what it seems"). Furtick distinguishes true faith from denial, which avoids facing reality, and despair, which succumbs to negativity. He emphasizes that faith is a decision, not merely a feeling, and encourages listeners to cultivate a faith-based internal narrator, replacing negative self-talk with a perspective grounded in God's promises. The parable of the mustard seed further illustrates the potential for significant growth from small beginnings of faith, urging listeners to plant seeds of purpose and trust in God's ability to bring forth a harvest, even amidst challenging circumstances. The message ultimately encourages active engagement with faith, viewing difficulties as opportunities for growth and trusting in God's transformative power.
Outlines
Understanding Functional Faith: Abraham's Example and the Power of Belief
Pastor Furtick examines Romans 4 and Abraham's unwavering faith despite seemingly insurmountable challenges. He contrasts denial and despair, advocating for honest self-assessment while maintaining steadfast faith in God's promises. The message emphasizes that faith is a conscious decision, not solely an emotion.
Faith's Two Extremes: Denial vs. Despair and the "It Is, But It's Not" Principle
Furtick explores the extremes of denial and despair in relation to faith. He argues that genuine faith involves honestly confronting reality while simultaneously believing in God's power to transform the situation, illustrated by the phrase "it is what it is, but it's not what it seems." Abraham's life serves as a powerful example.
The Mustard Seed Analogy: Small Beginnings, Immense Growth
The parable of the mustard seed is used to illustrate the potential for growth from small acts of faith. Furtick encourages listeners to plant seeds of purpose and faith, believing in God's power to bring forth a harvest, even in difficult times.
Planting Seeds of Faith: Overcoming Challenges Through God's Perspective
Furtick connects planting seeds with facing challenges through faith. He emphasizes that difficult situations are opportunities for spiritual growth, highlighting the difference between our perspective and God's.
Keywords
Functional Faith
Faith actively lived out, involving honest self-assessment and unwavering trust in God's promises despite challenges.
Justification by Faith
Salvation received through faith in Jesus Christ, not good works (as explained in Romans).
"It is what it is, but it's not what it seems"
Acknowledging reality while maintaining hope and faith in God's transformative power.
Mustard Seed Parable
Illustrates the potential for immense growth from small beginnings of faith.
Internal Narrator
The internal voice interpreting experiences; replacing negative self-talk with faith-based perspectives.
Abraham's Faith
An example of unwavering faith despite seemingly impossible circumstances.
Denial vs. Despair
Contrasting approaches to hardship; denial avoids reality, while despair succumbs to negativity.
Q&A
How can I cultivate functional faith in my daily life?
Honestly assess your situation, but maintain faith in God's power to work through it. This involves action and trust.
What is the difference between faith and denial?
Faith acknowledges difficult realities while trusting in God's power for change; denial avoids confronting them.
How does the parable of the mustard seed relate to faith?
It shows how small acts of faith can yield significant results with God's power.
How can I change my internal narrator to one based on faith?
Consciously choose to interpret situations through the lens of faith, focusing on God's promises.
Show Notes
“It is what it is” is a common phrase people use when faced with a difficult situation. To a certain extent, it’s true. Yes, this is what we’ve been dealt. But have we started accepting disappointment as the norm without questioning if God is at work?
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