What is Faith?

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
Hebrews 11:1

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Hebrews 11:6

What is faith? What does it look like when expressed in a person's life? Note the parallels between these two verses from the "faith chapter." They help us understand faith.

Faith is "being sure of what we hope for" (v.1) that is believing "that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him" (v.6). Faith is believing the promises of God that are yet to be fulfilled. Promises for this life and eternity.

Faith is "being...certain of what we do not see" (v.1) that is believing "that He exists" (v.6). We do not see God with physical eyes but we see Him and the unseen spiritual realities with eyes of faith. Faith is walking in fellowship with one we do not see but whom we know is real.

For further thought note how Hebrews 11:26 and 27 show this faith fleshed out in the life of Moses.

Father, may I see with eyes of faith so that I might walk close with You, who though unseen are very real, and that I might follow you faithfully holding tight to Your promises.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark