1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 For by it the people of old received their commendation. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.
Hebrews 11:1-3 (ESV)
The unknown writer of Hebrews describes faith in this opening passage of Chapter 11. Faith demonstrates confidence that things yet to come and that remain unseen will happen just as God has revealed that they will. We often think that the opposite of faith is doubt. However, it’s fear more than doubt.
Fear causes us to doubt.
In the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 4, we see the disciples overwhelmed by a storm while they are on the sea. After Jesus, who was in the boat with them all along, calms the storm, He asks them, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:35-40).
Fear begs us to question and ask, “What if we’re wrong?” Fear gives us pause and concern. What if God can’t, or doesn’t, or won’t? Faith reassures us that God can, that He does, and He will. When we remain confident in God’s promises, we need not be afraid. God’s got us.
Father God, give me faith, not fear. Do not allow fear to paralyze me. Keep fear from distracting me from the truths that You have promised me. Help my faith lead to action, not distraction or inaction. May I face tomorrow grounded in faith, not fear. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
The Devotional Guy™ 