World ChangersSample

Faith in God, Not Faith in Faith

Scripture: Hebrews 11:3; James 2:18

So who is the first world changer we encounter in Hebrews 11?

As a matter of fact, it is you.

Look at verse 3 of Hebrews 11 again: “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.” 

Who is the “we” in this verse? 

It’s us. It’s you and me. “By faith we understand.” The first space for a world changer, for this incredible, enduring roster of faithful saints, is inclusive, and you are invited to add your name. Faith is not elitist. It’s not only for saints enshrined in stained glass or people on pedestals. It is for all of us. 

When we talk about faith, we’re not talking about some random power in the universe that anyone with determination can tap into. Many fairy tales and Disney movies promote the idea of wishing upon a star or believing in yourself in order to make your dreams come true. Some might translate this to: “Just have faith and life will get better.” 

No, it won’t. Faith in nothing produces nothing. I’m not talking about having faith in faith here; I’m talking about having faith in God. Again, in verse 3 we read, “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God.” So the object of our faith is God Almighty. 

Some people say things like, “I don’t believe in faith. I am a person who believes in facts, not fiction. I believe you must see something to believe in it. Faith is for fools.” 

I have had people like this in my life too. And my reply to them goes something like this: “Seriously? You use faith every day. You put your faith in pilots and doctors and chefs and pharmacists. And God is saying, ‘Put your faith in Me, the One who created the stars and planets and gave you a beating heart and breath in your lungs. The One who sent His Son to save you from sin and give you eternal life so that you could live forever with Him in Heaven.’” 

Every one of us will end up putting our faith in something. 

You might as well have faith in the Faithful One, who has promised to never leave  you, nor forsake you. 

Do you consider yourself someone who has faith in God? Why or why not?