Faith is an Outcome

Scripture: By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, “and was not found, because God had taken him”; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 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. Hebrews 11:5-6

Observation: In discussing Enoch, the writer of Hebrews defines a path or progression of faith. He states that Enoch was taken by God in his faith, because he pleased God, and that before anyone can please God he must first believe in him. This belief is more than just a 'believe God exists' type of belief, but rather it breaks down into at least two parts. First, belief acknowledges that the Lord cares for those who seek him. Second, belief involves an understanding of what it means to seek the Lord.

"Seeking" is clearly an active effort to pursue God, and manifests in obedience. In fact, throughout this passage, the author clarifies belief as an act of responding to God's instructions. Abel provides the honorable gifts, Noah builds the ark, Abraham leaves his homeland, and Sarah agrees to the promise of a child.

Some would say ... we believe there is a good and just God, so we have faith in God, then see God in action, and thus respond to God with prayer, worship, honor, and obedience. The writer would say that ... we believe there is a good and just God, so we respond with prayer, worship, honor, and obedience, then we see God in action, and thus we are judged to have faith. Faith, then, is the outcome of a relationship with the Lord.

Application: It is in this passage that I understand more about how believers - sometimes myself included - can lack faith. Faith is a more advanced form of belief, that is interconnected with the actions of God in our lives. When we fully participate in that connect ... we know God does and will act ... then we have faith. When we are unsure if God will act, then we have belief alone.

I strive to have more faith. I want that faith to come from more and more of the Holy Spirit stirring within me. I believe in the Lord, and have full belief in his provision in my life. I respond to God with my prayers, gifts, and worship. I try to respond better with my actions and obedience. By his power, I will do even better at this. I desire only to be considered a person who has faith, not just belief.

Prayer: Lord, may your Spirit move me today and every day. Stir me strongly and ever stronger in obedience and love for others. Thy kingdom come, and thy will be done on earth, as far as I am able to do it by responding to your power. Amen.