What is Faith?

-

 

Scripture: Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.

Devotion:

Faith can sometimes feel like walking in the dark, trusting that there’s a path beneath your feet. Hebrews 11:1 paints a beautiful picture of what faith really is—an assurance and a conviction. Assurance conveys confidence in God's promises, while conviction reflects an unwavering belief even when there is no visible evidence to rely on.

This verse invites us to see beyond what is tangible, beyond what our eyes can perceive. Faith, a transformative force, reminds us that it doesn’t hinge on circumstances or proof. It is rooted in who God is and the reliability of His word. Abraham stepped into the unknown because of his faith. Noah built an ark long before the rain came due to his trust in God. Their faith wasn’t passive—it moved them, inspiring action even when the future was uncertain.

To develop this kind of faith, we must immerse ourselves in God’s Word. Scripture, our guiding light, reveals a God who keeps His promises steadfastly through all generations. It reminds us that our hope is not a fleeting wish but a secure confidence in Christ, whose death and resurrection guarantee the fulfillment of God’s plans.

Living by faith means stepping forward when life feels uncertain and trusting that God is in control. Faith, a source of courage, calls us to rely on Him, even when doubts and fears arise. It doesn’t erase the challenges we face, but provides the courage to trust Him in the midst of those challenges.

Reflecting on Hebrews 11:1, consider where God asks you to trust Him today. It could be a decision you’re facing, a relationship you’re nurturing, or a dream you’re pursuing. Whatever it may be, remember that faith connects you to the One who sees the bigger picture. He is always working, even when the outcome remains unseen.

Prayer:

            Lord, help us hang onto our faith through whatever comes our way. Things change so quickly these days. Lead us in the ways of relating to each other that bring about holiness and wholeness, regardless of our circumstances. Please have mercy on us when we fail to live our lives in obedience to you. Teach us how to stand firm on the solid rock that is your son Jesus. Amen.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Reflecting on Reformation Day

-
  On October 31st, millions of Christians around the world celebrate Reformation Day, a commemoration of a pivotal moment in church history. It marks the day in 1517 when Martin Luther, a German monk and scholar, nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. This act, challenging the practices and doctrines of the Catholic Church, ignited what we now know as the Protestant Reformation. The Courage to Stand for Truth Reformation Day calls us to reflect on the courage it takes to stand for truth. Martin Luther faced immense opposition and risked his life to speak against the corruption and abuses he saw within the church. His conviction was rooted in a deep understanding of scripture and a sincere desire to return to the teachings of Christ. As we remember Luther's bravery, let us examine our own lives. Are we willing to stand firm in our beliefs, even when it is difficult? Do we seek truth in God's word and let it guide our actions? Script...
Read more

Sealing A New Agreement

-
Nehemiah 9:38 to 10:39 Chapters 9 and 10 of Nehemiah present an exceptional moment in Israel's history. After a period of reflection and confession, the people of Israel make a covenant with God, reaffirming their commitment and dedication to following His commandments and decrees. This passage offers profound insights into the nature of repentance, commitment, and the collective responsibility of a faith community. Nehemiah 9:38 marks the beginning of this covenant, where the Israelites, led by their leaders, priests, and Levites, put their seal on a written agreement. This act symbolizes a collective acknowledgment of their past failures and a renewed commitment to live according to God's laws. It is a powerful reminder that true repentance involves both confession and a decisive turn towards righteousness. As we delve into chapter 10, we see the specifics of this covenant. The people pledge to adhere to various aspects of the Mosaic Law, including prohibiting interma...
Read more

Salvation Comes to Philippi

-
Scripture: Acts 16:29-31 (NIV) 29  The jailer called for lights, rushed in, and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30  He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31  They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household. Devotion: In this passage, we witness a decisive moment of transformation and redemption. The jailer, a symbol of authority and control, finds himself in a state of desperation and fear. His trembling before Paul and Silas represents a physical response and a profound spiritual awakening. The question he asks, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” resonates deeply with all of us at some point in our lives. It is the cry of a soul seeking meaning, purpose, and peace. Paul and Silas's response is both simple and profound: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” In this statement, we see the essence of the Christian faith. Salvation is not earned thr...
Read more