“For we live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
The Foundation of Faith
Faith is the cornerstone of our Christian life, and it is through faith that we come to understand our relationship with God. As believers, we are called to trust in the unseen rather than relying solely on our physical surroundings. This requires a firm foundation in God’s Word and a willingness to step out in faith, even when we do not know where we are going. Our ability to walk by faith reveals the depth of our trust in God and shapes our spiritual journey. We must continually seek His guidance and lean on His promises. When we embrace faith as our foundation, we learn to experience peace and assurance in God’s goodness and mercy.
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20
James 1:6
“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” – James 1:6
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
The Role of Trust in Our Walk
Trust is an essential component of walking by faith. It means putting our full confidence in God’s ability to lead and guide us, even in times of uncertainty. Our relationship with God is built upon trust, and the more we grow in our faith, the more trustful we become. When we choose to trust in God, we recognize that He has our best interests at heart. Trusting God can be challenging at times, especially when circumstances seem to contradict His promises. However, we can find encouragement in knowing that God remains faithful, and His plans for us are good. Trusting God not only strengthens our faith but also deepens our relationship with Him.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalm 37:5
Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
Jeremiah 17:7
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.” – Jeremiah 17:7
Psalm 56:3
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” – Psalm 56:3
The Courage to Step Forward
Walking by faith often requires us to take courageous steps into the unknown. God does not always provide us with a clear map of our journey; instead, He simply asks us to trust Him and move forward. This can be intimidating, but as we develop our faith, we realize that taking these steps is part of becoming the people God has called us to be. With each act of faith, we grow stronger and more confident in our relationship with Him. Walking in faith challenges us to leave our comfort zones and to rely on God’s strength, knowing that He supports us with love and grace. We can be assured that every step we take in faith will bring us closer to fulfilling our purpose.
Matthew 14:29
“Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” – Matthew 14:29
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
Romans 8:31
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
2 Timothy 1:7
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
The Assurance of God’s Promises
God’s promises are a source of comfort and assurance for us as we walk by faith. When we invest our faith in God, we become confident in the goodness of His promises. These promises remind us that He is in control and that we can rely on Him through life’s challenges. Understanding and claiming these promises helps us to keep our focus on the bigger picture, rather than solely on our current circumstances. The more we immerse ourselves in Scripture, the more we can remind ourselves of God’s faithfulness. By holding onto His promises, we find peace in knowing we are part of His plan and that He is always near.
Numbers 23:19
“God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” – Numbers 23:19
Romans 4:21
“Being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” – Romans 4:21
2 Peter 3:9
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9
Psalm 145:13
“Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does.” – Psalm 145:13
Hebrews 10:23
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” – Hebrews 10:23
The Call to Persevere
Perseverance is another vital aspect of walking by faith. The journey of faith may not always be easy, but we are called to continue pressing on, even in the face of obstacles. We have to remember that God is with us during these challenging moments. His promises encourage us to keep moving forward, regardless of the uncertainty that surrounds us. By focusing on our faith, we can find the strength to overcome doubt and fear. With perseverance, we become stronger and more resilient, growing closer to God along the way. This call to withstand trials deepens our character and strengthens our faith, making us more equipped to handle life’s challenges.
Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” – Hebrews 12:1
James 1:12
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
2 Thessalonians 3:13
“And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:13
Philippians 3:14
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14
The Fruit of Walking by Faith
Walking by faith produces wonderful fruit in our lives. As we continue to trust God’s guidance, we will see the effects of our faith reflected in our actions, choices, and relationships. This fruit can be a source of inspiration for others as we model what it means to live a life committed to Christ. By walking in faith, we demonstrate the peace, joy, and love of God to those around us. It becomes a wonderful testimony of God’s grace and provision, encouraging others to also deepen their faith in Him. Therefore, walking by faith not only transforms our lives but positively impacts the lives of those we encounter.
John 15:5
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Matthew 7:16
“By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?” – Matthew 7:16
Colossians 1:10
“So that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.” – Colossians 1:10
2 Corinthians 9:8
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8
Final Thoughts
Walking by faith rather than sight is a calling we all have as followers of Christ. With faith as our foundation, we learn to trust God and take courageous steps, knowing that He is always with us. It’s important for us to cling to the promises He has made and to persevere through our trials. As we remain steadfast in our faith, we will experience the fruit of our trust in Him, which positively influences the lives of others around us. Let us encourage one another to keep our eyes on Jesus and step boldly into the plans He has for each of us. If you’re looking for more inspiration, you might want to explore 2 Peter 3:18 and 2 Peter 3:16.