Mix the Word of God with faith

“For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” (Heb. 4:2 KJV)

The above passage tells how “the Word” was preached to two different groups, but it only profited the one that mixed it with faith. Notice that the problem was a faith failure not a Word failure.

The Word of God

The Bible says that the Word of God is shaper than a two edged sword (Heb. 4:12). It is breathed out by God and profitable (2 Tim. 3:16). It is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path (Psalm 119:105). It makes you wise for salvation (2 Tim. 3:15). It cleans you (John 15:3). It keeps you from sin (Psalm 119:11). It is like fire and a hammer (Jer. 23:29). It gives understanding to the simple (Psa 119:130), and it became flesh and dwelled among men as Jesus Christ (John 1:1). But, without mixing in faith, it won’t accomplish what it is meant to accomplish. Even Jesus (the Word that became flesh) was limited by the lack of faith of others: “And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.” (Matt. 13:58 NIV).  Faith is the critical ingredient that must be added to Bible promises in the Word of God to make them work!

Without faith you will receive nothing

“But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” (James 1:6-8 ESV

You will get what you ask “if you have faith”

“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” (Matt. 21:22 ESV)

Your faith must rest in the power of God

“That your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” (1 Cor. 2:5 ESV)

Therefore…

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” (1 Cor. 16:13 ESV)