“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1
Kate wouldn't stop telling her husband, Jude, that she was pregnant. To Jude, it didn’t make sense because her monthly cycle hadn’t stopped, and he didn’t want to embarrass himself again by going to the hospital only to be disappointed. It wasn’t the first time. For five long years, Kate and Jude had been trusting God for a child, each time met with heartbreak and confusion.
Two years prior, Kate had a dream where a baby was handed to her. Since then, she’d declared often, in defiance of physical reality, that a child was coming. Many times, her body gave mixed signals. Missed periods would raise hopes only to be dashed by negative tests. Yet, Kate’s confession never stopped.
One day, driven by an unusual peace, they visited the hospital again. But this time, the results were different. There wasn’t just one child. Kate was expecting twins. What began as a dream matured into reality through faith. This is the mystery and power of biblical faith.
What Faith Is
Faith, according to Scripture, is not merely wishful thinking or blind optimism. It is substance and evidence, a conviction rooted in God's nature and promises. Faith is trusting God beyond what the eyes can see or logic can explain.
It’s not passive. It acts, it speaks, it holds on. Faith sees the invisible, believes the unbelievable, and receives the impossible because it’s anchored in the integrity of a faithful God.
What Faith Is Not
First and foremost, faith is not denial of reality. It does not ignore facts or suppress pain. Faith acknowledges what is, but stands on what God has said.
Secondly, faith is not magic or manipulation. It is not a tool to force God's hand. Faith submits to God’s will while believing boldly in His power.
In addition, it’s not mere positive thinking or emotional hype. Faith remains steady even when feelings of doubts arise.
Objective vs Subjective Faith
Objective faith is anchored in the Word of God. It relies on who God is and what He has revealed in Scripture. However, Subjective faith often leans on personal feelings, desires, or experiences.
Though feelings and experiences can affirm faith, they should never define it. Real faith is grounded in God’s truth, not our shifting perspectives.
Faith and Doubt
Contrary to popular belief, faith and doubt can coexist in the same heart. Faith isn't the absence of doubt but choosing to trust in the middle of uncertainty.
Think of the man who cried out to Jesus, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24). His honesty didn’t disqualify him. Instead, it revealed a deeper dependence on Jesus.
Faith wrestles, waits, and sometimes questions, but it never lets go.
Why Is Faith Important?
- It helps us to please God : “Without faith it is impossible to please Him…” (Hebrews 11:6).
- It connects us to salvation: We are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8).
- It empowers our walk: The righteous live by faith, not by sight (Romans 1:17).
- It helps us persevere: Faith helps us endure hardship and trials without losing hope.
- It activates the promises of God: Many promises are received by faith (Hebrews 6:12).
How Can You Work Your Faith?
Working your faith begins by feeding it. Romans 10:17 says, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” Just as the body needs food to grow, your faith needs constant nourishment through Scripture, teaching, and time with God.
Next, speak your faith. 2 Corinthians 4:13 reminds us that faith is not silent, it is declared. What you confess reveals what you believe. When your words align with God’s promises, you activate faith in your heart and circumstances.
Faith must also be put into action. James 2:17 makes it clear that faith without works is dead. It’s not enough to believe internally; real faith steps out, obeys God, and takes bold actions even when the outcome isn't guaranteed.
Your faith will be tested, and that’s not a bad thing. According to 1 Peter 1:7, trials refine and prove the genuineness of your faith. Challenges aren’t signs that your faith is weak, they're opportunities for it to grow stronger.
Finally, guard your faith. Protect it from fear, spiritual fatigue, and negativity. Faith can be choked by constant exposure to doubt, cynicism, and distraction. Be intentional about your environment, what you listen to, and the people you allow to speak into your life.
The Faith That Conquers and the Faith That Endures
There is the faith that conquers, and there is the faith that endures, both are equally precious in the eyes of God. Conquering faith is bold and active.
It triumphs in spiritual battles, receives healing, commands breakthroughs, and speaks to storms with authority. It believes in miracles and often sees visible results.
On the other hand, enduring faith is quiet but unshakable. It holds on when there's no immediate miracle, stays faithful when answers are delayed, and continues to worship through pain and uncertainty.
One demonstrates God’s power to change circumstances while the other reveals His grace to sustain us through them.
What then?
Faith is a spiritual concept but tangible enough that can be experienced in our daily lives. It's the lens through which we see God, relate with Him, and walk through life. It does not guarantee that everything will go our way, but it guarantees that God will walk with us every step of the way.
Just like Kate, your story may seem illogical to those around you. But if you hold on, what began in the invisible can become your testimony.
What is your faith experience like? Feel free to share in the comments section. I will see you in the next one. Be Ye Steadfast!