(Hebrews 11:1- 6)
Hebrews 11 opens with a powerful definition: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Faith is not wishful thinking or blind optimism; it is a settled confidence in God’s character and promises. It gives substance to hope and provides inner assurance even when outward proof is absent. Faith testifies that God is trustworthy long before the outcome is visible.
The passage goes on to show that faith always leaves a testimony. Abel’s offering testified that faith honours God above convenience. Enoch’s walk with God testified that faith pursues intimacy rather than mere religion. Though these men lived generations apart, their lives speak the same message: God responds to faith. Verse 2 says, “By it the elders obtained a good testimony.” Faith becomes a witness—not just in words, but in a life aligned with God.
Faith also shapes how we see the world. Verse 3 tells us that by faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command. Faith gives us a divine perspective, reminding us that what is seen came from what is unseen. This anchors us when circumstances feel unstable; the same God who spoke creation into being is actively at work in our lives today.
Hebrews 11:6 brings the heart of the matter: “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Faith begins by believing that God exists, but it does not stop there. It also believes that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. This means faith is active, persistent, and relational. It seeks God not merely for blessings, but because He is worthy.
Our lives, like those of the elders, are writing a testimony. Faith declares that God is real, present, and faithful—even when the evidence is still forming. Today, choose to live by faith. Let your trust in God speak louder than fear, doubt, or delay. In doing so, your life will become a living testimony that points others to Him.
And without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him (Heb. 11:6).
