1 John 5:14-15 (NKJV)

{14} Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.

{15} And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

One of the deceptions that war against the believer is the enemy of our soul is endeavoring to steal our confidence (1 Peter 2:11 * John 10:10). The scriptures are full of illustrations that encourage us to keep our confidence undamaged. Our text is a good starting point. First of all, our confidence should be in none other than Him. Secondly, our confidence is preserved by making sure we are asking or petitioning for something in line with His Will — His Will is His Word. Thirdly, we have confidence that He hears us, if we are asking according to His Word. His Word is His Will. Fourthly, we must have the confidence that we have what we asked Him, if we know that He heard us. Knowing that we have a petition cannot be based on the five physical senses. Many times the senses are the biggest obstacles — the biggest hurdles that we have to get over. Why? Because we are inclined to allow the senses to dominate our lives. To receive God’s best we must lay aside our senses. We must learn to walk by faith in His Word (Hebrews 11:1 * 2 Corinthians 5:7).

The book of Proverbs gives us another look at confidence.

Proverbs 3:19-27 (NKJV)

{19} The LORD by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding He established the heavens;

{20} By His knowledge the depths were broken up, and clouds drop down the dew.

{21} My son, let them not depart from your eyes — keep sound wisdom and discretion;

{22} So they will be life to your soul and grace to your neck.

{23} Then you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble.

{24} When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet. {25} Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; {26} For the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught.

Wow, the previous passage is loaded with positive affirmations. Verse twenty six says it all for us. Other scriptures that speaks about our confidence are: Psalms 118:8 * Philippians 3:1-3 * Hebrews 3:6. Lastly, I want to leave you with something that must be paramount in your mind.

Philippians 1:6 (NASBU)

{6} For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

What He started in us, He is more than able and willing to finish. However, He can’t do it apart from our cooperation. — AWM

Copyright © 2010 Anthony N. Wade Ministries, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No portion of this publication may be rewritten or reproduced without the written permission of the author.

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