by Kathy Kirk, excerpt from Faith, The First Step To Financial Freedom

Before we can exercise our faith, we must understand what it means to have faith. Faith is a word that can be explained in many ways. The Webster dictionary defines faith as complete and loyal trust, without doubt or question, faithful, resolute, loyal, staunch and steadfast. Even the dictionary can help us understand faith. By reviewing each description individually, we can come to understand the breath and demand of this word faith.

Faithful – adherence to God’s promise

Resolute- adherence to whatever one owes allegiance- (God)

Loyal – a firm resistance to any temptation that would betray God

Staunch – solid and impervious (unaffected) by that which would weaken it

Steadfast – implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance or conviction to God

I don’t know about you, but as I studied Webster’s dictionary definition of faith, I began to realize my shortfall in this area. I also realized that if the Webster dictionary could give me more clarity on faith, how much more could the Bible inspire and guide me to a faithful path with God? Let’s examine the scripture on faith because we know that God does not give us a command without the knowledge to carry it through. The unknown author of Hebrews defines faith and gives examples of faith in Hebrews Chapter 11.

What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see. (Hebrew 11:1 NLT)

By Faith, Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became the heir of the righteousness which is according to faith. (Hebrew 11:7 ASV)

By Faith, Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac; and he who had received the promises was offering up his only begotten son; it was he to whom it was said, “ In Isaac Your Descendents shall be called.” He considered that God is able to raise men even from the dead; from which he also received him back as a type. (Hebrew 11:17-19 ASV)

As we examine the two examples above, it is clear that faith requires you to move out of your comfort zone. Faith is a willingness to follow God’s commands and believe in His promises. The book of Hebrew gives countless examples of men and women who exercised great faith. I encourage you to read the entire book of Hebrew because it’s purpose is to help Christians become secure in their faith.