Week 4: Bricks Without Straw: The True Test of Faith
Pastor Leke explores the concept of spiritual adversity that can follow acts of faith and obedience, drawing his central metaphor from the biblical story of Moses and the Israelites in Exodus. He posits that life often intensifies in difficulty after a promise is made or a step of faith is taken, describing these as "bricks without straw" moments, where the required output remains but the necessary resources are removed. The purpose of these challenging periods, exemplified by situations like financial struggles after tithing or increased temptation after leaving addiction, is often to test one's faith and prepare for a breakthrough, rather than being random occurrences. Pastor Leke encourages believers to respond to these trials by examining themselves for sin, practicing gratitude instead of complaining, returning to God in prayer, and seeking fresh revelation of His nature and power, ultimately aiming to foster a deeper experience of God's presence and strength in the midst of seemingly impossible circumstances.