Faith That Pleases God

And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who draws near to God must believe that He is and that He becomes a rewarder of those who seek Him.

Hebrews 11:6 

What does it mean to have faith? Many people view faith simply as believing in God's existence or hoping things will improve. However, the Bible offers a much deeper understanding. The Greek word for "faith" in Hebrews 11:6 is “pistis”, which connotes trust, confidence, reliance, and unwavering loyalty. True biblical faith isn't passive; it's an active trust in God that leads to committed obedience.

Faith goes beyond merely agreeing with biblical truths; even demons acknowledge God's existence (James 2:19). Genuine saving faith depends entirely on the Lord Jesus Christ and manifests through a life dedicated to honoring Him. Authentic faith consistently prompts us to act because it is grounded in the conviction that God is who He claims to be and will fulfill His promises.

That is precisely what Hebrews 11 illustrates. Noah believed God and built an ark before a drop of rain had fallen. Abraham believed God and left his homeland for a land he had never seen. Moses trusted God more than the treasures of Egypt. Rahab believed God's promises and welcomed the spies. Their faith was not merely something they professed with their lips; it was demonstrated by lives marked by loyalty and obedience.

The object of our faith is far more important than the size of our faith. We are not saved because we possess great faith, but because our faith rests in a great Savior. Yet the faith that saves never remains idle. It produces perseverance, obedience, worship, generosity, service, and steadfastness. As John Calvin declared, "Faith alone justifies, but the faith that justifies is never alone."

Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that "without faith it is impossible to please Him." We please God not by earning His favor through our works, but by trusting Him so completely that our lives demonstrate our confidence in His promises. Faith believes His Word. Faith obeys His commands. Faith remains loyal when trials come. Faith continues even when the destination is unseen. As you walk with Christ this week, ask yourself: Is my faith merely something I profess, or is it evident in the way I live? Does my life demonstrate loyalty to Christ?

May God give us a faith that trusts Him completely, follows Him faithfully, and remains steadfast until we see Him face to face. May our lives proclaim that our confidence is not in ourselves, but in our faithful Savior.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Your shepherd,

Pastor Mark