Article for June 2024
Faith is the Cornerstone of Christian Life
Faith stands as a central pillar in the life of a Christian, shaping beliefs, actions. Through scripture, we understand faith not merely as belief in the unseen but as an active trust in God’s promises, character, and guidance.
Defining Faith
The Bible offers a clear definition of faith in the Book of Hebrews:
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1, KJV).
This verse encapsulates the essence of faith, portraying it as both a confident expectation and a firm assurance in the realities beyond our physical perception. Faith goes beyond mere intellectual assent; it involves a deep, trusting reliance on God.
The Role of Faith in Salvation
Faith is crucial for salvation in Christian life . The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in his letter to the Ephesians:
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9, KJV).
Here, Paul underscores that salvation is a divine gift received through faith, rather than something earned through human effort. This teaching underscores the humility required in recognizing one’s dependence on God’s grace.
Faith in Action
Faith is not passive; it manifests in actions and decisions that reflect trust in God. James, the brother of Jesus, stresses the necessity of active faith:
“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone” (James 2:17, KJV).
This verse highlights that genuine faith naturally produces good works. It’s an integral part of a living, dynamic relationship with God, leading believers to act according to His will.
Faith and Prayer
Faith is also pivotal in the practice of prayer. Jesus taught his disciples about the power of faith in prayer:
“Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them” (Mark 11:24, KJV).
This teaching emphasizes the necessity of faith in the efficacy of prayer. Believers are encouraged to approach God with confidence, trusting that He hears and answers prayers according to His will.
Examples of Faith in the Bible
The Bible makes reference with stories of individuals whose lives exemplified profound faith. Abraham, known as the father of faith, trusted God’s promise of a son despite his and Sarah’s old age:
“Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be” (Romans 4:18, KJV).
Similarly, the faith of Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt, showcases reliance on God’s guidance amidst overwhelming challenges. The writer of Hebrews summarizes the faith of many such individuals in what is often referred to as the “Faith Hall of Fame” (Hebrews 11).
The Growth of Faith
Faith is not static; it grows and matures over time through experiences and spiritual disciplines. The Apostle Peter encourages believers to nurture their faith:
“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity” (2 Peter 1:5-7, KJV).
This progression illustrates how faith is the foundation for other virtues and characteristics, leading to a mature and robust Christian life.
Conclusion
Faith is the cornerstone of Christian existence, a profound trust in the unseen realities promised by God. It is both a gift and a response, shaping how believers live, pray, and grow spiritually. By embracing and nurturing faith, Christians align their lives with God’s purposes, finding strength, guidance, and hope in His eternal promises. As the writer of Hebrews reminds us:
“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, KJV).
In this faith journey, believers are called to a deep, abiding trust in God, assured of His presence and faithfulness in every aspect of life.
shalom.
By Sister Monica Oseghale.