What is Faith?

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." – Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV)

Faith is trusting that what God has promised will happen, even when there is no visible proof yet. It is believing in something before it becomes a reality. It is more than just belief; it is a deep, unshakable trust in the unseen realities of God’s promises. But what exactly is faith, and how do we live by it daily?

Faith Is Confidence in God

Faith is not wishful thinking or blind optimism. It is confidence in the character and the promises of God. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as both substance and evidence. This means that faith makes the unseen tangible and provides assurance of what we do not yet see. It is the certainty that God is who He says He is and that He will do what He has promised. It is knowing, without a doubt, that God is true to His word. 

Faith Means Trusting Even When You Don’t See

One of the hardest parts of faith is holding on to God’s promises when everything around you seems to say otherwise. Abraham believed God would give him a son, even though he and Sarah were far past childbearing age (Romans 4:18-21). His faith was not based on what he saw but on the God who had spoken.

Faith Moves Us to Action

True faith is not passive; it compels us to act. James 2:17 tell us, "faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead." Noah built the ark before a single drop of rain fell. Moses stretched out his staff before the Red Sea parted. Faith moves us to obedience even when we do not fully understand how things will unfold.

Faith Grows by Hearing God’s Word

Romans 10:17 says, "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." The more we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, the stronger our faith becomes. Spending time with God in prayer, worship, and meditating on His word also helps us trust Him more. Like any relationship, faith grows through time and consistent interaction with God.

Faith Overcomes Fear and Doubt

Fear and doubt often try to shake our faith, but faith is what keeps us steady. When Peter walked on water towards Jesus, he started sinking the moment he focused on the waves instead of focusing on Jesus (Matthew 14:29-31). Faith keeps our eyes fixed on God, no matter what’s happening around us. 

Living by Faith Daily

Faith is not just for the big and extraordinary moments in life; it is for our daily walk. We show faith when we pray, believing that God hears us. We show faith when we give, trusting that God will provide. We show faith when we follow God’s plan, even when we don’t know where it will lead (Proverbs 3:5-6).

What next? 

If you desire to grow in faith, start by becoming intentional with your relationship with God. Spend time in His Word, surround yourself with faith-filled believers, and take steps of obedience, even when the path is unclear. Faith is a journey, every step you take builds your trust in God.

Questions to reflect on

• In what areas of your life is God calling you to trust Him more?

• How can you actively grow your faith this week?

• Are there any fears or doubts you need to surrender to God?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, You are my Father and friend. Thank You for loving me, thank you for choosing me. Thank You for the plans and purpose You have for my life. Help me to stay close to You and trust You. Help me to trust you even when I cannot see what I am believing you for yet. I am Yours, and You are mine. I pray that I experience your love every day. I pray that I grow in faith every day.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Declaration 

• I have faith in God

• I walk by faith and not by sight

• My faith in God moves mountains

• My faith in God moves me to act

• My faith in God grows as I meditate on the word of God

• My faith in God overcomes doubt and fear

• I trust God regardless of what's going on around me

• I trust that God is true to His word

• I trust that God will do what He says

• Jesus is the foundation of my faith

• I love God, I am loved by God and I trust God every day

Song

A song I’ve been listening to on repeat is Gratitude by Brandon Lake