“Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. “ Heb. 11:1 This “faith” describes Biblical confidence, which comes from careful observation and weighing all the available evidence God gives us in His Word. In Hebrews 11:3, the writer tells us by faith, we believe that the world and the universe were created by something that we cannot see.
When I stop to think about what that is saying, I question my faith. But examining your faith can be a good thing. Do I really believe that the world and everything I can see and touch was created by something invisible? Yes, I do. I also believe Jesus died on the cross, and three days later, God raised Him from the dead. If I have the confidence to believe these truths, why do I waver in my faith when it concerns the things that happen in my life? I say that I believe that God raised Jesus from the grave, but I don’t think He can handle the worst of the worst in my life? While I would like to sail through life with few problems, are problems actually what I need to strengthen my faith?
Think about this statement I heard several years ago. “Rough seas make strong sailors.” If sailors had smooth sailing all the time, would they ever become seasoned, skilled mariners? Likewise, if we, as followers of Christ, never had trials, tribulations, and persecutions in our lives, would our faith be able to grow? In John 16:33, Jesus said to His followers, “These things I have spoken to you that in Me you may have peace. In this world, you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
The rest of Hebrews 11 highlight men and women who stood on their faith regardless of their circumstances. These people weren’t perfect by any means. But the common thread between all of them is the fact that they were unwavering in their faith. Do you know a fellow believer that seems to soar through life facing overwhelming circumstances with unbelievable calmness and grace? More than likely, they, too, have had their share of heartache and sadness. However, they must have learned to lay their problems at the foot of the throne.
It is through trials in our lives that Jesus is nearest to us. We must have faith to lean into Him, pray with confidence, and believe that He will work out our present circumstances for our good and His glory.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
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