Understanding Biblical Faith Continued:
Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Verse one describes faith, and the rest of the chapter gives us examples of faith. Notice the Bible talks more about what faith does than what faith is. Dr. J. Oswald Sanders once said, “Faith enables the believing soul to treat the future as present and the invisible as seen.” God desires Christian walkers not just Christian talkers. James said, “Faith without works is dead.” The works that I do come out of my faith in Christ. We don’t “do” to get saved…we do, because we are saved.
What about the Shield of Faith? At all times we are to carry the shield of faith; for with it you will be able to put out all the fiery (burning) darts (arrows) shot by the evil one (Satan). Again, “Faith” means, “Confidence” or “Assurance” or “Trust” or “Commitment towards God.” Our faith must be anchored in Truth! Faith in anything else will fail…and the Truth is Jesus! Who or what is the object of your faith? Is it your job? Talent? Self? Spouse? Children? Grandchildren? Government? I pray it is Jesus! He is the Author and Finisher of my faith. It’s all wrapped up in Jesus!
There are different kinds of faith:
- There is Historical Faith. But Jesus must mean more to you than a history lesson. A lot of people think Jesus was a good man, but He must mean more to you than that. The demons have this kind of faith for the Bible says, “Even the demons believe and tremble.”
- Temporary Faith. This faith endures for a while, but then dissipates. It’s like the seed that is planted. It sprouts and grows, but then soon withers away.
- Miraculous Faith. It’s interesting that Judas Iscariot had faith that enabled him to cast out demons, but Judas would later be possessed by the devil (John 13:27). But the faith that is needed to quench the fiery darts of the enemy is Justifying Faith! Paul said, “Having been justified by faith we have peace with God.” Faith is what is needed in the life of the Believer. Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith.” Your whole Christian walk is hinged (connected) on faith. You’re saved by faith. Justified by faith. Sanctified by faith. Healed by faith. We walk by faith. We approach God by faith. We have access into the throne room of God by faith. It’s because of our faith in Christ that we have all these benefits.
What’s the evidence of faith in the life of a Christian?
- Faith Obeys! If a Christian has faith in Christ, then they will obey the Lord. The bible says, “Obedience is better than sacrifice.” Faith obeys! Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” Our actions tell us what kind of faith we have. If we have faith, then we will obey His Word. We will desire His Word. We will desire to be in the House of God. We will desire to be in fellowship with one another.
- Faith Prays! Hebrews 11:6 says, “He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Faith seeks God. Faith believes God. Faith knows that God will answer! Therefore faith prays!
- Faith Pleases. Again Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him.” Faith desires to please God. How do we please God? By faith and by obedience to His Word. Faith is concerned about God more than self.
- Faith Expects! Those who have faith come expecting God to do great things. Faith comes with anticipation in their heart. Faith is ready to worship and praise and cry out to God. Faith is ready to hear the Word preached. Their hearts are full of expectancy. Why? Because faith expects! It’s my prayer that God’s people have the faith that is needed to please God.
A father’s boy was possessed by a demon. Jesus said to the man, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” Let your faith speak through actions. Ask God to revive and renew our faith in Him! Let us come believing God for the miraculous! With God all things are possible! My friend, only believe! — Pastor Mark Mauldin