Faith as the Foundation of Our Life

Faith is an integral part of Christian life. It serves as the foundation for our spiritual growth and our relationship with God. This is especially articulated in

Hebrews 11:1

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Faith is not a mere abstraction or theoretical concept. It is a concrete action that requires our active response and involvement. Faith is the conviction that God exists and that He is faithful to His word. Even when circumstances surround us with trials and doubts, we must hold onto God's promises, understanding that true faith is confidence in what we do not yet see.

The first part of the definition of faith is "the substance of things hoped for." This means that faith enables us to see victory over difficulties and to attain what we strive for in Christ. Examples of God's promises fulfilled in our lives shape this confidence. The Holy Spirit works in our hearts, strengthening us and empowering us to believe in what seems impossible.

The second part of the definition is "the evidence of things not seen." This indicates that we, as believers, do not rely solely on what we can see or feel physically. My faith brings me assurance in God's plans and promises, even when they have not yet come to fruition. Believing in the unseen is an act of will when we take God at His word.

Looking at examples from the Bible, we can see how true faith acted in the lives of the patriarchs. For instance, Abraham believed God's promise, looking at his wife, even in her old age, who was barren, and this gave him the energy to act.

Romans 4:20-21

"He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised, He was also able to perform."

True faith does not just arise in us; it requires daily practice and communion with God. It is through prayer, reading the Scriptures, worshipping, and serving one another where we can find shelter and strengthening for our faith. It is also fellowship with other believers who can support us, share their experiences, and grow together in God's promises.

Dear brothers and sisters, let us remember that our faith is not just a religious tradition. It is the foundation of our life, the basis of our journey to salvation and eternal life. Let us set our hopes in God's promises and be confident in the unseen that awaits us in His Kingdom.

Therefore, by cultivating our faith, we become a light for others who struggle with doubts – and through our testimony, we can lead them to Christ. May our faith be alive, active, and always directed toward the Great God, fulfilling His plan in our hearts and in our lives.