December 7th

Now Faith Is

Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

The Foundation

The word translated here as “substance” comes from a word that means something put underneath, a substructure, or a foundation. In a more abstract sense, it means confidence, or something that one builds their expectation upon. Faith is the foundation for what we are hoping for.

Things Hoped For

The expression “hoped for” also has a meaning that is different from modern usage. To hope for something, in modern usage, is to wish for something with a shaky or no expectation of obtaining. People will say, "I sure hope such and such happens." It is said with an underlying skepticism.

But to hope for, in the Biblical sense, is to have full and confident expectation of receiving something or of a thing happening. It is believed with certainty, not skepticism.

So then, faith is the foundation for what we are fully expecting to happen. What is that confident expectation based upon? It is based upon the promises of God found in His word. If God promised it, and we are exercising full confidence in that promise, then faith is in operation.

The Proof of Things Not Seen

The verse goes on to say that faith is the evidence, or proof, of things not seen, or, that is, the proof that things we do not yet see do exist already, based on God’s promises. The things we pray for, based on His promises, already exist somewhere, even if it is only in our hearts. It is faith and confidence in God’s promises that bring them into our lives.

Cultivate faith and hope in God’s promises today. Search His word. Find out what His promises are to those who serve Him and seek Him. He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. And begin to make His promises the foundation for your faith and your prayers.