Text: Luke 1:5—25

Topic: How we live in unbelief

Introduction:

Zachariah entrance into the Holy of Holies to offer the sacrifice was the most important day of his life.

An angel declares his prayers answered, but Zachariah is unable to believe.

The "scar of the old wound" of infertility, created this inclination to disbelieve.

The disciples on the road to Emmaus couldn't believe the resurrection because it was too good to be true.

Sometimes we prefer the safety of doubt over the risk of disappointment.

Why are we surprised, or pass it off as coincidence when God answers prayer?

Illustration: In response to prayer a man is healed of cancer, and less than a year later the church talked about the time they "thought" he had cancer.

Illustration: Bob Pierce left room for God to meet his ministry needs.

Illustration: Augustine prayed that God would enlarge his soul.

Zachariah was unable to celebrate because he was too caught up in the impossibility of the promise.

Illustration: An eagle is raised by prairie chickens, unable to see itself as an eagle.

God is angered by our refusal to become who we were created to be.

Do you believe the doubts of an old man, or the words of one who stands in the presence of God?

Illustration: A log floating down the Potomac is filled with bugs who believe they are steering.

God blesses us despite our failure to believe.

Conclusion:

Illustration: Patterson repeatedly tells his son he loves him.

God never tires of telling us until we believe.