What It Means to Have Faith in God Trusting His Promises and Power

What is Faith in God?

Faith in God is more than just believing in His existence; it is complete trust and reliance on His power, wisdom, and promises. The Bible defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1, ESV). True faith is demonstrated through obedience, perseverance, and unwavering confidence in God’s plan.

The Power of Faith: Biblical Examples

1. Abraham’s Faith and God’s Promise

Abraham believed God’s promise that he would become the father of many nations, even though he and Sarah were old and childless. His faith was credited to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6). Even when tested to sacrifice Isaac, Abraham trusted God’s provision, demonstrating unshakable faith (Genesis 22:1-14).

2. The Woman with the Issue of Blood

In Mark 5:25-34, a woman suffering from bleeding for twelve years believed that touching Jesus’ garment would heal her. Jesus responded, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” Her unwavering belief in Jesus’ power brought about her healing.

3. Peter Walking on Water

When Peter saw Jesus walking on the sea, he stepped out of the boat in faith. However, when he focused on the storm, he began to sink. Jesus said, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31, NIV). This story teaches that faith must be steadfast, even in life’s storms.

Jesus and the Power of Faith

1. Casting Out an Evil Spirit

A desperate father brought his demon-possessed son to Jesus after the disciples failed to heal him. Jesus said, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” (Mark 9:23, NKJV). The father cried out, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” and Jesus healed the boy, showing that even a mustard seed of faith is powerful.

2. The Rich Young Ruler and Salvation

Jesus told a wealthy man to sell all he had and follow Him. When the man left sorrowfully, Jesus said, “With man, this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26, BSB). This passage highlights that salvation is not achieved through human effort but through faith in God’s grace.

3. Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane

Before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:36, NIV). Though He desired another way, Jesus submitted to God’s will, showing that faith includes trusting God’s plan even when it is difficult.

Faith in God’s Promises

The Bible repeatedly assures us that nothing is too hard for God:

• “Is anything too hard for the LORD?” (Genesis 18:14, NLT)
• “Ah, Lord GOD! You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power… Nothing is too hard for You.” (Jeremiah 32:17, ESV)
• “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” (Luke 1:37, KJV)

Faith is knowing that God is faithful to His Word. When we trust Him, He provides, heals, and makes a way where there seems to be none.

God’s Will vs. Our Desires

While God can do all things, He acts according to His perfect will. God will not do anything contrary to His Word:

• “God is not a man, so he does not lie.” (Numbers 23:19, NLT)
• “I will not violate My covenant, nor alter the utterance of My lips.” (Psalm 89:34, NASB)
• “If we are faithless, He remains faithful— for He cannot deny Himself.” (2 Timothy 2:13, ESV)

Like Jesus in Gethsemane, we may have desires, but true faith means trusting in God’s will, even when it contradicts our own.

Struggling with Faith: Overcoming Doubt

Even strong believers struggle with faith. The father in Mark 9 admitted his weakness, crying, “Help my unbelief!” God understands our struggles and meets us where we are. Practical ways to strengthen faith include:

1. Prayer – Ask God to increase your faith (Luke 17:5).
2. Reading Scripture – Faith comes by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
3. Fellowship – Encouragement from other believers strengthens faith (Hebrews 10:25).
4. Obedience – Acting in faith leads to spiritual growth (James 2:17).

Trusting God’s Will

Believing in God’s power means trusting His plans. Even when we face trials, we hold onto His promises:

• “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5, KJV)
• “Blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him.” (Jeremiah 17:7-8, NIV)
• “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.” (Hebrews 10:35-36, NIV)

Conclusion: A Life of Faith

Faith in God is not a one-time decision but a daily commitment. It means trusting in His Word, believing in His power, and submitting to His will. When we have faith, we can say with confidence, “With God, all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26, BSB). Let us live in faith, knowing that God is always faithful!

Christian Quotes on Faith

• “If all things are possible with God, then all things are possible to him who believes in Him.” — Corrie ten Boom
• “God is able to accomplish, provide, help, save, keep, subdue… He is able to do what you can’t. He already has a plan. God’s not bewildered. Go to Him.” — Max Lucado

Faith is not about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who does. Amen!