By the shield of faith we can “quench all the fiery darts of the wicked” (Ephesians 6: 16). But what exactly is faith and how do we acquire it in our Christian walk?
God’s definition of the word faith: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, being convinced of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1 NET). Massive spiritual depth is in this word. To strengthen our understanding of this verse, it helps to examine other passages that reveal what faith is, how it operates, and why it is necessary.
1. Faith Comes Through Hearing God’s Word
“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17) Faith is not wishful thinking. Biblical faith is built upon what God has spoken. The more we understand God’s promises, the stronger our faith becomes. Conversely, if we hear false teachings about His promises, then the true faith fades.
2. Faith Looks Beyond Sight
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) Hebrews 11:1 says faith is confidence in things not seen. Paul explains that believers are to order their lives according to God’s promises rather than merely according to visible circumstances.
3. Faith Produces Certainty
“Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith.” (Hebrews 10:22) Faith involves assurance and confidence. It does not remove every question, but it rests securely in God’s character and promises.
4. Faith Trusts God’s Promises
Speaking of Abraham: “He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.” (Romans 4:20-21) This passage beautifully illustrates Hebrews 11:1. Abraham was “fully persuaded” even before he saw the fulfillment.
5. Faith Pleases God
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6) Faith begins by believing who God is and trusting that He will faithfully fulfill His word.
6. Faith Can See What Natural Eyes Cannot
Concerning Moses: “He endured, as seeing Him who is invisible.” (Hebrews 11:27) Faith gives spiritual perception. Moses remained steadfast because he recognized God’s reality even though God was invisible to physical sight.
7. Faith Must Be Accompanied by Action
“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” (James 2:17) True faith is demonstrated through obedience. The heroes of Hebrews 11 all acted because they believed.
8. Faith Trusts God During Trials
“The trying of your faith worketh patience.” (James 1:3) Trials often reveal whether our faith rests in circumstances or in God Himself.
9. Faith Fixes Its Eyes on Christ
“Looking unto Yahshua the author and finisher of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:2) He is both the source and the perfect example of faithfulness. Our faith grows as we focus on Him.
10. Faith Gives Victory
“For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.” (1 John 5:4) Faith enables believers to persevere and overcome the pressures and temptations of the world.
Examples of Hebrews 11:1 in Action
Noah
“By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet…” (Hebrews 11:7) Noah acted upon a future reality he had never seen.
Abraham
“By faith Abraham… went out, not knowing whither he went.” (Hebrews 11:8) Abraham trusted God’s promise more than his own understanding.
Sarah
“Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed.” (Hebrews 11:11) She believed God’s promise despite impossible circumstances.
Moses
“By faith he forsook Egypt.” (Hebrews 11:27) He chose God’s future reward over Egypt’s visible treasures.
A Helpful Summary
Hebrews 11:1 teaches that faith is:
- Confidence in God’s promises.
- Assurance of future realities.
- Conviction concerning unseen truths.
- Trust based on God’s Word.
- Demonstrated through obedience.
- Sustained by fixing our eyes on Christ.
A particularly powerful companion verse is:“Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” (John 20:29) This statement by Christ perfectly echoes the truth of Hebrews 11:1: Genuine faith rests in God’s testimony even before the promise becomes visible.
