SERMON NOTES WITH APPLICATION - EXERCISING FAITH PT I (HEBREWS 11:1-6-MSG)

Pastor William Mathis
1 day ago
2 min read

Series Theme: Seeking, Knocking, and Asking

SERMON TITLE: Exercising Faith (Pt. I)

Text: Hebrews 11:1-6 (MSG)General Theme: Hidden Manna

🧩 Key Scripture Idea:

Faith is the foundation for everything worth living for. It gives us grip on what we can’t see and helps us live in step with God—even when it doesn’t make sense.

🔑 SERMON POINTS & PRACTICAL APPLICATION

1. STRIVE FOR WHAT SHOULD BE (v.1)

"Faith is the firm foundation... our handle on what we can’t see."

Explanation:Faith is not wishful thinking—it's the power to pursue what should be, even when it isn’t yet visible.

Practical Takeaway:

Young people: When school is hard, friends disappoint, or the future feels uncertain, trust that God is building something meaningful in your life.
Adults: Even when you're underemployed, stressed, or emotionally drained, keep showing up and striving toward God's promises.
Everyone: Choose to live today as if God’s promises are true—because they are.

2. SHAPE YOUR OWN JOURNEY (v.2-3)

"By faith, we see the world called into existence by God's word..."

Explanation:The ancestors were distinguished by faith—they didn’t copy anyone else’s story. They believed God could do something new with their lives.

Practical Takeaway:

Don't compare your journey to others. Faith shapes your unique path.
Kids & teens: Your faith is valid even if it looks different than others’.
Adults: Let go of fear-based decisions. Shape your life with God's word, not just worldly wisdom.

3. STEP-BY-STEP FLOW WITH GOD (v.4-6)

"By an act of faith..." Abel, Enoch, and others made lasting impact."Without faith, it’s impossible to please God..."

Explanation:Real faith is lived one step at a time, with God’s pleasure and presence guiding us. Abel and Enoch weren’t perfect—but their belief made them stand out.

Practical Takeaway:

Young or old: Faith isn’t about knowing every step—it’s about trusting God with the next one.
Let your daily decisions—what you give, how you speak, how you treat others—be acts of faith.
Remember: God sees. God notices. God responds.

🌱 FINAL REFLECTION:

God doesn’t ask for perfection—He asks for faith. The kind that shows up in how you strive, how you walk your journey, and how you trust Him day by day.

Ask yourself this week: