Thursday Thunder : The Authority of Faith

A Message from FA Memphis

Faith isn’t just positive thinking, wishful hoping, or trying to “manifest” something. In the Bible, faith is trust placed in the real God who loves you—and it moves you to act, pray, and obey. If you’re new to church stuff, you’re welcome here. You’re never forgotten, never alone, and deeply loved by God.

Relevant Scripture

"Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." : **Mark 11:22-24 (NIV)**

"I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." : **Luke 10:19 (NIV)**

"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." : **Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)**

Explanation: The Sound of Spiritual Power

Welcome to another edition of Thursday Thunder. When I talk about “thunder” here at Boundless Online Church, I’m not chasing a catchy title—I’m pointing to a biblical picture. In Scripture, thunder is often connected to the voice and majesty of God. At Mount Sinai, the giving of the Law was accompanied by thunder and lightning that shook the people. It was a physical reminder that God is real, present, and powerful.

In the same way, faith is meant to become a “thunderous” reality in your life—not loud for attention, but steady and strong on the inside. It’s what happens when I align my heart with Jesus. I want you to know today that you are never forgotten, never alone, and deeply loved by God. Because of that love, He hasn’t left you defenseless in a noisy, chaotic world.

Faith is a Command, Not a Suggestion

In Mark 11, Jesus doesn't suggest that we try to feel more spiritual. He gives a direct command: "Have faith in God." In the original Greek, this can be understood as "Have the faith of God" or "Have the God-kind of faith." This is an active, speaking faith. It is the same kind of faith God used when He spoke the world into existence.

Often, we treat faith like a thermometer: it just tells us what the temperature of our life is. If things are going well, our "faith" feels high. If things are a mess, our "faith" feels low. But the authority of faith is actually meant to be a thermostat. It doesn't just record the atmosphere; it *sets* the atmosphere. When you speak the Word of God over your situation, you are exercising a delegated authority to change the environment around you.

Operating Under the Right Guardrails

As we navigate these spiritual truths, Assemblies of God worldview IS the guardrails. This is crucial because, without the foundation of Scripture, talk about “authority” can drift into self-centered hype—or into “say the right words and you control God” thinking that misses the heart of the gospel.

Any real spiritual authority I have isn’t because I’m impressive—it’s because of Jesus. I’m not the source of power; He is. Think of it like a police officer: an officer doesn’t stop a speeding truck because they’re stronger than the truck, but because their badge represents real authority. When I pray in the name of Jesus, I’m not performing a ritual—I’m coming under His leadership and asking Him to do what only He can do.

We believe in the 16 Fundamental Truths, which teach that divine healing is provided in the atonement. So I pray boldly for healing and deliverance—while still submitting to God’s wisdom, God’s timing, and God’s will. Faith isn’t pretending pain isn’t real; it’s bringing real pain to a real Savior.

Digital Discipleship and Guarding the Gates

In this digital age, living with faith isn’t just about what I say in prayer; it’s also about what I allow to shape my mind. The world is full of noise that can drown out God’s voice. If I constantly feed my heart content that breeds fear, lust, or cynicism, it gets harder to recognize what’s true—and harder to stay grounded.

I’m a huge advocate for taking practical steps to guard your digital home. You wouldn’t leave your front door wide open, so why leave your digital “doors” wide open? If you watch movies or shows, I recommend using **VidAngel** (or “Enjoy Movies Your Way”) to find cleaner, family-safe versions when available. It’s a simple way to choose what you’re welcoming into your home.

For online safety and accountability, I also recommend **Bark** and **Covenant Eyes**. These aren’t about shame—they’re about support. They help you set boundaries, protect kids, and create healthy patterns. Don’t let algorithms dictate your peace.

The Weight of Your Words

One of the most powerful ways to exercise the authority of faith is through your speech. Proverbs tells us that life and death are in the power of the tongue. When the "thunder" of God's Word is in your mouth, things happen.

I want to challenge you to look at your current "mountain." Is it a financial struggle? A health crisis? A broken relationship? Instead of just talking *about* the mountain to everyone you know, start talking *to* the mountain using the Word of God.

1. **Faith is a Response:** We respond to who God is, not how we feel. If the Bible says He is a Provider, then we declare Him as Provider even when the bank account looks low. 2. **Words Have Weight:** Use your words to build up. Declare God’s promises over your children, your marriage, and your mind. 3. **Consistency is Key:** A thunderstorm doesn't usually happen in a second; the pressure builds. Stay consistent in your faith, even when you don't see the clouds shifting yet.

At Boundless Online Church, I want to help you grow in a steady, confident faith in Jesus. Whether you feel far from God, you’ve been hurt by church, you’re homebound, or you’re simply curious, you’re welcome here. You can take a real step toward Jesus right where you are—one prayer, one verse, one choice at a time.

Standing Firm in the Storm

Finally, remember that authority is most evident during the storm. In the middle of a literal storm on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus slept. Why? Because He had total authority. When He woke up, He didn't argue with the wind; He commanded it. "Peace, be still."

You have that same Spirit living inside of you. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead is dwelling in your mortal body. That means when the storms of life start howling, you don't have to cower in fear. You can stand up in the authority of faith and speak peace to the chaos.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed today, take a deep breath. Remember that you are a child of the Most High God. You are a victor, not a victim. The authority of faith is your birthright as a believer. Use it. Speak it. Walk in it.

Prayer of Authority

Heavenly Father, I thank You for the gift of faith. I thank You that I am not a victim of my circumstances but a victor through Christ. Today, I choose to speak Your truth over my life. I declare that Your peace, Your healing, and Your provision are active in my world. I take authority over every spirit of fear and doubt that tries to take root in my heart. Help me to walk in the authority You have given me and to be a light to those around me. I protect my home, my mind, and my family, standing firm on the unshakable foundation of Your Word. Amen.

Go to the Boundless website and join the Bible Study Club. Connect with Christians around the world to discuss these studies, pray together, and grow closer to God and each other.

www.boundlessonlinechurch.org

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Layne McDonald