Measurable Faith

The Bible tells us that "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Heb. 11:1). In other words, faith is a belief in something that is to come, and what is to come is desirable. Also, that which is hoped for is not anticipated according to present physical reality (Rom. 8:24), but with inward confidence that certain promises will be kept (2 Tim. 4:7,8). This makes faith the continual expression of belief in both promises and their future fulfillment.

Holy Scripture also explains that faith is a necessary element of salvation, and that one cannot please God without it. "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" (Heb. 11:6). Faith is so vital to a relationship with God that it is simply inconceivable to know God without it. Thus the words: faith, faithful, faithfulness, et cetera, are mentioned literally hundreds of times in the New Testament of God's will for mankind.

In defining faith, one must understand that it is more than just a feeling of hope or a belief in God; faith is only faith when it is acted out in the lives of Christians (Matt. 6:30; 2 Cor. 5:7; Gal. 2:20; James 2:18). Therefore it can be determined that true faith is evident by action, and that faith not resulting in complete devotion to God, from both soul and body, is not really faith at all (James 2:17-26). Faith is only faith when proven!

This leads to some discussion - How is faith proven? How is it measured? Perhaps the truth that lies behind this is what we humans struggle with most. Although we are obligated to prove our faith, we do not measure it. God measures it and supplies it from His word - "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Rom. 10:17). When the last day comes, the Lord will judge each one of us and give reward to those who have displayed His definition of faith and righteousness (Matt. 25:31-46; 7:21-23; Rev. 2:10).

We need to understand that faith is not:

1. Filling a pew on Sunday morning and then going through motions.

2. Expressing belief in God and His Son and then living as if we don't know Him.

3. Reading the Bible as a rule-book and not loving His commands.

4. Depending on love alone to overcome the fact that we don't obey the rules.

Where is your faith? Is it measurable? Is it evident physically and

spiritually? Is it a way of living, an approach to decision making? Is it being justified by God and not by men? Is it trusting in God's word and relying on Him every moment? Is it being ready to give up everything except a relationship with Christ (Phil. 3:8)? Is it destined for eternity?