FAITH FOR IMPACT (1)

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony” – Hebrews 11: 1-2

Closely complementing Insight is FAITH for IMPACT: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony” (Heb.11: 1-2). Hebrews 11, often called “The Faith Chapter” or “The Faith Hall of Fame,” contains the word, “faith” 18 times in 40 verses. Faith is not just a passive belief, but a powerful force that shapes decisions and actions, and enables the experience of unseen realities of God's promises, leading to a life of impactful living. Faith is the "substance" of what we hope for, the conviction of things not seen. Faith is not just believing something exists, but fully trusting in its reality, even when we can't physically see it.

Faith was demonstrated through the examples of Abel, Enoch, and Noah, where their faith led to significant actions that pleased God. Abel offered a better sacrifice than Cain, demonstrating that faith is not just about believing, but also about acting in obedience to God's Will. Enoch was taken up to heaven without experiencing death, displaying the Power of Faith to transcend earthly limitations. By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverential fear constructed an ark (v.7).  Faith trusts God's promises and it believes God's warnings; whereas, something within the carnal person wants to believe the promises and ignore the warnings.

The essence of the Christian Faith is reliance on the Person, Work, and Promises of Christ. Reliance means to depend on or to count on. The Lord is a Living Person. He has done many things on our behalf; is doing things right now, and has promised to do more. Faith is relying on Him in all these regards. Relying on God makes Him happy. Faithfulness is the lifestyle that pleases God: “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (v.6).

In a sense Faith is a personal matter; but it is more – our faith or lack of it, impacts those around us in profound ways. When someone, especially a leader, refuses to give in to doubt, others are encouraged to believe. When someone has enough faith to not give in to temptation, others are encouraged to do right. The Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation: “For none of us lives to himself, and no man dies to himself” (Rom.14:7). Everything that we do has an impact on those around us. When we are faithful to God and His Work, and He is glorified, this serves as an inspiration and example to others of what He is able to do for and through them if they will walk in faithful obedience.