Deep Dive into Horae Homileticae Vol. 5: Psalms, I–LXXII by Charles Simeon - Psalm 11

The sources present a fundamental contrast between unbelief and faith when individuals face difficulties, opposition, or spiritual conflicts. Unbelief always views the dark side of a question and magnifies the difficulties encountered, leading to desponding questions like, "if the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?". It causes people to keep out encouraging considerations and suggests injurious thoughts. Driven by suspicion that God might fail, unbelief prompts the use of unbecoming expedients, such as not waiting God’s time but trying to contrive some way for ourselves, leading to actions like falsehood, treachery, or concealment to avoid the cross. It can also lead to cowardice and counsel to flee.In contrast, faith has the peculiar province to “see Him who is invisible” and to have respect to God in all situations. It views God as an Almighty Sovereign who sees all plots and can defeat any enterprise and as a righteous Judge who loves the righteous and will rectify apparent inequality and recompense tribulation. These views compose the mind and enable believers to repose a confidence in God. Faith rejects unbecoming expedients and fear-driven actions. It expects the accomplishment of all God’s promises and does not make haste. Faith finds strength in God's power, knowing that with God all things are possible and that no weapon formed against him can prosper, unless Infinite Wisdom has ordained that it shall. When facing despair, faith prompts one to chide cowardice and Hope thou in God. Ultimately, faith shifts focus from overwhelming circumstances to God's power, justice, and faithfulness, leading to steadfastness and peace.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianPatreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed