First of all, what is faith? “…faith is the 1substance of things hoped for, the 2evidence of things not seen.” (Heb. 11:1) 1hupostasis: that which has actual existence 2elenchos: proof. The proof of our faith is the actual existence of what we are believing for. For example: “By FAITH we understand that the everything was created by the WORD OF GOD (that’s Jesus Christ), so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible.” (Heb. 11:3) In other words, everything was spoken into existence, out of nothing.
How important is it for us to have faith? “…without faith it is IMPOSSIBLE to please God, because anyone who comes to God must BELIEVE that He EXISTS and that He REWARDS those who EARNESTLY SEEK HIM.” (Heb. 11:6) He is GOD everything that exists does so because of Him. If we believe in Him He will reward us with Eternal Life! “…it is by grace you have been saved, THROUGH FAITH—and this is NOT from yourselves, it is the GIFT OF GOD— NOT by works, so that no one can boast.” (Eph. 2:8-9)
OK, what if I need just a little more faith? Jesus said, “I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE for you.” (Matt. 17:20) The mustard seed is one of the tiniest, most insignificant seeds found in the Middle East. A fast-growing annual herb, the mustard seed grows up to 10 feet tall in just a few short months, demonstrating the striking example of the godly potential of the small, insignificant amount of faith needed to do the impossible.
Like the man said to Jesus, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24)
-Bill Stockham