Romans 10:17, Hebrews 11:1; 6, 2 Corinthians 5:7

Kunle Olabode examines a life of faith

Kunle Olabode

So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17, NKJV).
The Bible gives a most authentic definition of faith as "The substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). Thus faith pertains to a state of complete trust and confidence in someone or something, especially when these are not comprehended with the natural senses of sight and touch. The concept of faith is used in different contexts in the Bible, one of which is the necessity of faith to receive healings and miracles from God.

Furthermore, faith has other meanings as in Hebrews 11:6 which states categorically that it is impossible to please God without faith; and 2 Corinthians 5:7 which states that the just shall live by faith. These later references indicate that faith in God is more than that which is required in order to receive breakthroughs from the Lord; instead a life of faith would be characterised by obedience to God at all times, with or without supernatural occurrences.

In this regard, pleasing God becomes more important that receiving from Him. But suffice it to be said, however, that a life that pleases the Lord is better placed to receive divine intervention than the one that relates to God as if He was a "Spare Tyre" to be reverted to only in times of breakdown (troubles).

In order to live a life of faith which pleases the Lord at all times, there has to be the proper appreciation and confident assurance in our hearts about God's "Omni-qualities". The facts of His ever abiding presence; His unfailing love; His unsearchable wisdom etc. A growing and deepening relationship with the Lord is what strengthens a lifestyle of faith; and this is made possible as we get grounded in His word. And based upon His word, rather than people or events around us, we become settled in our hearts that since God cannot fail, ALL WILL BE WELL - Amen