Hebrews 11:1 - Now faith is the assurance (title deed, confirmation) of things hoped for (divinely guaranteed), and the evidence of things not seen [the conviction of their reality—faith comprehends as fact what cannot be experienced by the physical senses]. AMP
Hebrews 11:1 - The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. - MSG
What does the Bible mean by faith? Why is it so important?
According to the Strong's Bible Dictionary, faith is the acceptance, belief, confidence, and certainty of God's truth as revealed in scripture, The Holy Bible. Faith is essential to our walk with God. It is the essence of discovering who we are in Him. The writer of Hebrews 11:1 focused on faith's importance as he/she spoke to the Jewish converts of that time, reminding them of the dangers of turning away from true faith, faith in Jesus Christ.
As I was reading this particular scripture on faith, I found it very helpful to break it down into parts in order to get the big picture. Here is a closer look:
Who should have faith?
Believers; All of humanity
What is faith?
True faith is having confidence and belief in the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob and His plan for redemption of mankind through the blood of Jesus Christ.
When should one have faith?
One should have faith continually without wavering.
Where does faith abide?
Faith abides in the heart.
Why should one have faith?
Hebrews 11:6 specifically states, "But without faith it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him. - AMP
Without it, we can't draw nearer to God and be made whole through Christ blood.
How is faith obtained?
Faith is obtained by hearing the Word of God (the message of Christ), according to Romans 10:17.
So as you can see from the analysis, we cannot live a truly productive and redeemed life without faith. Our faith can't be placed in those things that profit nothing, but must be rooted and grounded in Christ alone. Let us keep our hand in His and allow Him to lead the way to eternal peace!
#hope-in-christ