Faith is one of the foundations of our spiritual lives.  Without it, we have no hope.  Place it in the wrong object, and we have false security.  Ground it in the nature of God, finished work of Christ, and unchallenged power of the Holy Spirit, and we are powerful people.

Two particular Bible verses shape my view of faith: Hebrews 11:1 and 6.

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”

“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”

From time to time, I hear some well-intentioned soul misrepresent Scripture and tell someone that they will be healed, or their need will be met, or some other positive outcome will happen of they just “have faith.”  The implication of that statement is that if it doesn’t work out the way they think it should, their faith is somehow deficient.

Think about that a moment.  What requires more faith – trusting a God who gives you whatever you ask when you want it or trusting a God who sometimes tells you no without any explanation?  I believe the latter allows us to demonstrate more faith.

Since faith is being sure of and believing even though we can’t see, then a situation that remains unresolved requires us to continue to exercise that faith.  Once we receive that for which we asked, we can see it, and it no longer exercises our faith.  The exercise of our faith pleases God, therefore we are in a greater position to please God when situations remain a challenge.

So, if you are experiencing a season in which you have asked God for a resolution and He has yet to provide it, keep believing.  That very situation and the faith you demonstrate in it is allowing you to please God.

Does anyone have a “faith” story they would like to share?  The comment section is open for you to