Faith Defined

"Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1).


What is faith? Faith is not a power or force that we can use to manipulate God to fit into our agenda. We're not that smart. Faith is not just confidence. It is not believing in yourself or feeling sure about the outcome of a certain event.


For example, you could visit the bleachers in a ball game, and each side would be confident its team would win. This is not biblical faith.


Faith is not confusing or complicated. it is not the domain of educated men but is meant to be sought and applied by everyday folk in everyday life. Faith is not connected to circumstance. When all is well, we often think our faith in intact. But when foul conditions set in, what happens to our trust? As long as our faith is no deeper than our circumstance, we're set up for failure


Authentic faith is simply this: God is who He says He is and will do what He says He will do. Our faith is in the person of Jesus Christ, in His character and attributes. It is completely trusting in the faithfulness of God to do what is right.


Is this the kind of faith that deposited in your heart? If not, rid yourself of all false notions, and tell God that you are trusting Him as your all-sufficient Savior, Lord, and Life. It doesn't necessarily mean all will go well, but it will be very well with your soul.


Dear Lord, give me authentic faith. I believe You are who You say You are, and You will do what You say You will do. My faith rests in Your faithfulness to do what is right in my life. Amen


~Charles Stanley~