Faith: The Foundation of a Christian Life

What is one word that describes you?

As Christians, our faith defines us. It is the bedrock upon which we build our lives, the guiding light in our darkest moments, and the steadfast assurance of our salvation. In the vast tapestry of Christian virtues, one word stands out above all: faith.

In Hebrews 11:1 (KJV), the Bible tells us, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” This verse encapsulates the essence of faith—it is the confident assurance of things we hope for and the conviction of things we cannot see with our physical eyes. Our faith is not blind; it is grounded in the promises of God and the testimony of His Word.

Throughout Scripture, we see countless examples of individuals whose lives were transformed by their unwavering faith. Abraham, known as the father of faith, trusted God’s promise of a son even when it seemed impossible (Hebrews 11:8-12). Noah, by faith, built an ark to save his family from the flood, despite the ridicule of the world around him (Hebrews 11:7). And in the New Testament, the woman with the issue of blood demonstrated her faith by touching the hem of Jesus’ garment, believing she would be healed (Mark 5:25-34).

But faith is not merely a historical concept reserved for the heroes of old. It is a living, breathing reality that should define every aspect of our lives as Christians. In Romans 1:17 (KJV), the apostle Paul declares, “For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” Our righteousness, our very way of life, is rooted in faith. We are called to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7), trusting in God’s goodness and sovereignty even when circumstances may seem bleak.

As Christians, our faith is not passive but active. James 2:17 (KJV) reminds us, “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” True faith produces fruit in our lives—it compels us to love our neighbors, to seek justice for the oppressed, and to proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth. Our faith is demonstrated not only in our words but in our deeds, as we live out the truth of God’s Word in a world desperately in need of hope and redemption.

In times of uncertainty and doubt, let us cling to the promise of Hebrews 11:6 (KJV): “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.” Our faith pleases God because it demonstrates our trust in His character and His promises. And as we diligently seek Him with unwavering faith, we can rest assured that He will reward us with His presence, His peace, and His unfailing love.

May faith be the defining characteristic of our lives as Christians, guiding us through the storms of life and illuminating the path to eternity with our Savior. As we journey onward, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), and walk boldly in the assurance of His grace. Amen.

The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella