Living By Faith
Main Bible Passage: Hebrews 11:1-6
“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. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at
God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. By faith Abel brought
God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke
well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead. By faith Enoch was
taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; ‘He could not be found, because God had
taken him away.’ For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. 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.”
Faith is the cornerstone of the Christian life, defining our relationship with God and shaping how we navigate the world. Hebrews 11:1-6 provides a profound exploration of faith, illustrating its essence and significance through the examples of the ancients who lived by faith. This passage not
only defines faith but also highlights its pivotal role in pleasing God and experiencing His rewards.
Hebrews 11:1 begins with a definition of faith: “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Faith involves a firm belief in God’s promises and a trust in His unseen reality. It is more than a vague hope; it is a deep-seated confidence in God’s character and His
faithfulness to fulfill His word.
The passage then presents examples of individuals who demonstrated this kind of faith. Abel’s faith is seen in his offering, which was accepted by God because it was offered in faith. This story illustrates that faith is not merely about rituals but about the heart behind them. Abel’s offering
was a reflection of his trust in God’s provision and righteousness.
Enoch’s story further exemplifies faith. Enoch walked with God and was taken up to heaven without experiencing death. His life was characterized by a close, obedient relationship with God, which pleased Him. Enoch’s faith was not in grand gestures but in a consistent, faithful walk with
God.
The passage emphasizes that faith is essential for pleasing God. “Without faith it is impossible to please God,” underscores that faith is fundamental to our relationship with Him. Believing in God’s
existence and His willingness to reward those who earnestly seek Him are prerequisites for coming to God. This faith involves more than intellectual assent; it requires a heartfelt trust in God’s promises and character.
Faith also involves a readiness to embrace the unseen and the unknown. The universe was formed by God’s command, showing that faith accepts and understands the creation and order of the world, even though it is not visible to us. This acceptance of the unseen aligns with the belief that God’s
ways and plans often transcend our understanding.
Living by faith means navigating life with a trust in God’s promises and a commitment to His will,
despite uncertainties and challenges. It involves stepping out into the unknown with confidence in God’s guidance and provision. This kind of faith is transformative, leading to a life marked by obedience, hope, and a profound relationship with God.
Life Application: Evaluate your own faith journey. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to trust God fully? Reflect on the promises of God and how you can embrace them more fully.
Consider how you can cultivate a deeper faith through prayer, studying Scripture, and seeking
God’s guidance in all aspects of your life. Embrace the unseen and trust that God is at work, even when His plans are not immediately apparent. Let faith be the driving force in your decisions and actions.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of faith and for the examples of those who have
gone before us. Help me to live by faith, trusting in Your promises and believing in the unseen.
Strengthen my confidence in Your character and Your plan for my life. Teach me to walk with You daily, as Enoch did, and to offer my life as a reflection of my trust in You. May my faith bring
glory to You and draw me closer to Your heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
