Faith – What Does That Mean?

There is no one alive who does not have faith – of some kind, in some thing. Yet, there are probably few who could define what faith means. Faith is as illusive as the wind. We know it it is there, but where does it originate, and when does it leave us? For, in fact, faith can leave us and we can be left feeling helpless and hopeless and afraid. Case in point, think of the over 16.2 million people in the United States who suffer from depression – (and the numbers aren’t in for the increases due to the pandemic). When we are unsure of our world we are more likely to become anxious; anxiety unchecked can send us on a downward spiral of depression.

How do we counteract this very human phenomena? Some people advocate a better diet, leaving out sugar and complex carbohydrates. Others say that increased exercise is essential. Some say music helps. Others advocate for participation in a small group. I would say, all of the above helps, but none of the above is a cure all in and of itself.

What is essential to good health, physically and emotionally, is a. spirit that is healthy as well. We must tune in to our Creator to receive the nourishment that keeps the other systems operating well. As I was meditating on this, I thought of our father of the faith:

¹⁶ The promise depends on faith so that it can be experienced as a grace-gift, and now it extends to all the descendants of Abraham. This promise is not only meant for those who obey the law, but also to those who enter into the faith of Abraham, the father of us all. ¹⁷ That’s what the Scripture means when it says:

“I have made you the father of many nations.”

He is our example and father, for in God’s presence he believed that God can raise the dead and call into being things that don’t even exist yet. Romans 4:16-17 (TPT)

Abraham was not a super hero. He was an ordinary man who heard a voice within him telling him to leave his people and venture to an unknown place where he would receive great reward. The essential caveat was that he had to believe this, before he did it! And history records that he did!

So too, in our lives. We have to get outside of ourselves, into a connection with somebody bigger than you and I. Unlike Abraham, we not only had to. believe an unseen voice, we can now read a recorded document of all those who like Abraham took God at His word. We can even see examples of their journey, helping us to understand the ups and downs of a life of faith.

Faith – what is it? We’re going to take a few days to look at it -and try to conceptualize it and increase it in our own lives!

Maria