Believers with a Faith Like a Sharp, Low Mountain

This passage deals with the third step of faith, the state of a 'sharp, low mountain', and sheds light on the process of spiritual maturity through the life of Joseph. It is the stage at which a faith that once seemed easy to grasp, the more one learns of God's word, comes up against the difficulty of putting it into practice and the danger of pride, and many believers stop or stumble here. Joseph, not understanding the dream and the mission God had given him, boasted about them and earned his family's hatred, but the passage shows that this was a refining meant to make him into a larger vessel.

The sermon warns against the pride of believers who boast of their devotion and knowledge and judge others. When a heart that bargained for blessings through a prosperity-seeking faith disappears as soon as it gains freedom, it reveals that this was a faith for self-interest, not true love. God wants believers who devote themselves not under compulsion or the leverage of rewards, but with hearts that truly love God and are thankful to him.

Now we must look back on whether our faith is for loving God or for receiving blessings. When we mature spiritually, go down to a low place, and live humbly, we will come to realize how God raises us up high.