As Christians, we are called to live a life that pleases God, which necessitates us to live by faith. Kenneth E. Hagins wrote in his book “The Art of Prayer” that “Faith is the force that puts the power of God to work in our lives.” Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Faith is the confidence and trust in God’s Word, character, and promises.
However, there are times when we unintentionally undermine our faith. In this article, I will discuss ways in which believers may unknowingly sabotage their faith in God and offer practical biblical tips on overcoming these obstacles.
1. Negative Words:
Negative words is a common phenomenon that can have a big impact on our faith. When we speak negatively about ourselves, we are, in essence, speaking against what God says about us.
The Bible says in Proverbs 18:21, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Our words have the power to shape our reality, and when we speak negatively, we can inadvertently sabotage our faith.
To refrain from speaking negatively, we must learn to become aware of our thoughts and words. We must learn to speak kindly and compassionately about ourselves, just as God speaks about us. We must learn to speak what God’s word says about our situation and not how the situation looks like on the outside.
Our fight of faith is a good fight of using our words. 1 Timothy 6:12 “Fight the good fight of faith. Lay hold of the everlasting life to which you were called, and you confessed the good confession in the sight of many witnesses.”
It starts with having God’s word for your situation, believing it and then speaking it out even in the face of contradicting circumstances.
2. Fear and Doubt
Fear and doubt are two of the most significant obstacles to faith. When we allow fear and doubt to creep into our minds, we can begin to question God’s goodness and sovereignty.
In Hebrews 11:1, the Bible records “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Faith requires us to trust in what we cannot see, and when we allow fear and doubt to dominate our thoughts, we can undermine our faith in God.
To overcome fear and doubt, it’s essential for us to focus on God’s Word and promises. We must learn to trust in God’s goodness and His love for us, even when we cannot see what’s ahead.
3. Unforgiveness
Unforgiveness is another way we may be sabotaging our faith. When we hold onto unforgiveness, we can create a barrier between ourselves and God.
If you notice in Matthew 6:14-15, the Bible says “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
To overcome unforgiveness, it’s essential to learn to let go of past hurts and betrayals. We must learn to forgive others fast and by faith, not for their sake, but for ours.
4. Lack of Thanksgiving
Unthankfullness is another way we may be sabotaging our faith. When we fail to always acknowledge and appreciate God’s blessings in our lives, we can begin to take Him for granted.
The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks to God in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Thanksgiving is an essential component of faith. It is the highest demonstration of our faith in God. And when we fail to cultivate it, we can undermine our faith walk with God.
We must learn to develop a good habit of giving thanks to God always, in every situation and His blessings in our lives, no matter how small they may seem.
5. Comparing Ourselves to Others
Finally, comparing ourselves to others is another way we may be sabotaging our faith. When we compare ourselves to others, we can begin to feel inadequate and insecure.
As the Bible says in 2 Corinthians 10:12, “We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.” Comparing ourselves to others is a form of pride, and it can lead to a lack of contentment and gratitude.
To overcome the habit of comparing ourselves to others, it’s profitable to focus on our own faith journey and progress. We must learn to celebrate our own successes and accomplishments of Faith, rather than comparing ourselves to others.
Brethren, Faith is not just believing; faith is acting on what you believe. There are many other ways you may be sabotaging your faith without even realizing it. But when you become aware of some of these unconscious patterns and habits, you’ll begin to see your faith in God work for you.
Romans 4:20-21 says, “He (Abraham) did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.”
Mark 11:22-24 says, “Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.”
So, take a moment to reflect on your life and faith walk with God. Are there any areas where you may be sabotaging your faith without even realizing it? Start taking steps today and you’ll begin to see your faith work for you. Absolute Faith in God and His word works!
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Acts 20:32.
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Shalom!
