Steadfast in What We Know

A Call to Consider What We Truly Know

On a quiet Wednesday evening, the congregation gathered for prayer and reflection, led by a message that asked a foundational question: “What do you know?” From childhood wonder to seasoned faith, the speaker traced the human journey of knowledge and understanding. As we mature, our sense of certainty often gives way to humility—but in spiritual matters, there are essential truths that believers must hold firm.

The speaker emphasized that while we will never know everything, there are unwavering truths we must anchor ourselves to. These truths are not based on intellect alone but on faith, testimony, and the sustaining power of God’s Word. The opening challenge laid the groundwork for a deeper dive into the significance of conviction and personal testimony in the Christian life.

Learning from a Life of Affliction

The life and testimony of C.W. Naylor, a prolific hymn writer and minister in the Church of God, became the centerpiece of the message. Stricken by injury in his early ministry, Naylor spent over 40 years bedridden. Yet, his confinement became a platform for ministry—writing hymns and spiritual literature that have inspired generations.

His life was presented as a powerful illustration of spiritual steadfastness. Despite physical limitations, Naylor never surrendered his calling. Through deep valleys of discouragement, he clung to the truth of who God was and what He had done in his life. He became a living well of encouragement—ministering from a bed, offering prayer to others, and influencing saints across decades. His unwavering testimony reinforces that affliction does not disqualify anyone from usefulness in God’s Kingdom.

“I Know”: Anchoring in Song and Scripture

Drawing from a familiar hymn by Naylor, the message reflected on its five verses—each beginning with the words, “I know.” These declarations became spiritual markers:

• “I know on whom my faith is fixed.”

• “I know Christ abides in me.”

• “Let scoffers scoff… they cannot take the joy I feel.”

• “They cannot bring again the sins the blood has washed away.”

• “I know God is… I calmly face a hostile world.”

The sermon encouraged the congregation to not sing such lines by rote, but to internalize them with intention. These are not simply poetic verses but vital affirmations for daily trials. The speaker challenged everyone to examine whether their faith is truly “fixed”—secure, unshaken, immovable—and whether they can say with confidence, “I know.”

Standing on Testimony in a Hostile World

The sermon turned to John 9, recounting the healing of the blind man by Jesus. When questioned by Pharisees, the man did not engage in theological debate. Instead, he stated plainly: “One thing I know: whereas I was blind, now I see.”This became the heart of the message.

In a world filled with skepticism and opposition, believers must stand confidently on their testimony. As the speaker noted, “After the Word of God, the most powerful thing we have to stand on is our testimony.” The message reminded the congregation that while scoffers may argue theology, no one can take away a changed life.

This theme also resonated through a personal story—how one young man, newly saved, shared what God had done for him, even when he lacked all the answers. The speaker emphasized that it’s not about having complete understanding, but about knowing what God has done personally.

Faith That Calms the Soul

The final section of the sermon turned toward a posture of rest. The hymn’s fifth verse captures this spirit: “I calmly face a hostile world, with soul and mind at rest.” The speaker acknowledged this is easier said than done. Human emotions, anxieties, and unanswered questions often war against peace. Yet, through faith in the character and Word of God, peace is possible.

CW Naylor’s story was again held up as an example of this calm. Even in pain, his writings revealed a man who learned to live in spiritual rest. His books, like Heart Talks and The Secret of a Singing Heart, continue to minister to others in times of hardship.

The message closed with the comforting lyrics: “I don’t know about tomorrow, but I know who holds my hand.” It was a reminder that we may not understand every path we walk, but we can walk with confidence when we know the One who walks with us.

📖 Scripture Reference List

• John 9:1–25 – The healing of the blind man highlights the power of personal testimony. When interrogated, the man holds firm: “One thing I know, that whereas I was blind, now I see.”

• 2 Timothy 1:12 – “I know whom I have believed.” This verse echoes the theme of steadfast faith and personal confidence in Christ.

• Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.” A foundational call to rest in divine sovereignty, even amid turmoil.

• Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trusting in the Lord with all our heart, especially when we don’t understand, is a recurring encouragement in the sermon.