A few years ago, I was sitting in my living room, surrounded by bills, medical reports, and a seemingly endless list of problems that felt too heavy to bear.
The morning sun streamed through my window, falling across my worn Bible. As I traced my fingers across its leather cover, these words came to me:
“Faith isn’t about seeing the whole staircase, my child. It’s about taking the first step.”
That morning marked a turning point in my understanding of what it truly means to live by faith. For years, I had approached my Christian walk like a business plan. Trying to calculate every outcome and control every variable. This essentially leaves no room for God to work in unpredictable ways.
But there I sat, with circumstances that defied my careful planning, facing a choice. Would I continue trying to manage everything in my own strength? Or would I finally learn what it means to truly live by faith?
Through my journey since then, I’ve discovered that living by faith is critical to the Christian life. Like all believers, I am called to trust in God completely and rely on Him to guide my steps each day. I still find that living by faith can be challenging at times but I take comfort in God’s words. The Bible provides encouragement, wisdom, and instructions to help me walk closely with the Lord through every season of life.
In this guide, I want to share what I’ve learned about what it truly means to live by faith in Jesus Christ. How it leads to victory, freedom, joy, and eternal life. My journey hasn’t been perfect – far from it. But through each stumble and victory, I’ve discovered truths about faith that have transformed my walk with God. I believe they can transform yours too.
Key Takeaways On Living By Faith
- Faith means believing and acting on the truth about Jesus Christ and His sacrifice for our sins. It goes beyond intellectual belief.
- Living by faith allows you to experience freedom from sin. It gives you divine peace, stability in trials, and intimate fellowship with Christ.
- Scripture gives us many instructions and examples about walking by faith. Leaning on God’s strength enables you to live righteously.
- Growing in faith requires cultivating daily spiritual disciplines. Prayer, Bible study, Scripture memory, giving thanks, and obedience are important disciplines.
- God rewards those who seek Him in faith. He promises to complete the good work He began in us.
- Walking by faith means obeying Christ even when you don’t see the whole picture. Trust Him completely.
What Does it Mean to Live by Faith?
“Living by faith” essentially means trusting in the promises of God. Rely on His word, even when you don’t see the full picture. Apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV):
“For we live by faith, not by sight.”
As a Christian, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died for our sins and rose again (Romans 10:9-10 NIV). I cannot see Him with my physical eyes. But I have assurance and confidence in what Scripture teaches about Him.
Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) defines faith as:
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
Rather than trying to control outcomes in your own strength, learn to take God at His word. Follow Him one step at a time.
Walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7, ESV). Of course, this doesn’t mean you discard reason or wisdom. But it does mean submit your understanding to the truths of Scripture. Ask God to increase your faith when doubts arise.
Why is Living by Faith Important?
I’ve discovered that living by faith is important because it honors God and aligns my life to His will. The Bible makes it clear that without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6, NIV). James 2:17 (NIV) also notes that faith without action is dead.
In my experience, true living faith manifests itself through obedience to Christ. I’ve learned that faith is not merely an intellectual exercise. It is a surrender of my life to the loving rule and reign of Jesus, who gave Himself for me.
Additionally, I’ve found that living by faith brings freedom from sin and fear. If you try to control your life or earn salvation through good works, you become enslaved to external pressures. Human effort will always fall short.
But when you trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation, then you receive His grace. You can walk in the freedom for which He came to set you free (Galatians 5:1, NIV). You no longer have to strive for salvation but can rest in Him.
What Does the Bible Teach About Living by Faith?
Throughout my study of Scripture, I’ve been inspired by how God commends individuals who exercised radical faith in Him.
- For example, Abraham obeyed God by leaving his homeland to travel to an unknown Promised Land (Hebrews 11:8, NIV).
- Moses chose to suffer with God’s people rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season (Hebrews 11:25, NKJV).
Time after time, I’ve seen how those who relied on God saw Him do the impossible in their lives.
Here are several key instructions about living by faith:
- Believe in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice for your sins. John 3:16 (NIV) declares: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus paid the penalty for your sins on the cross so you could be made right before God by faith alone. This is the bedrock of the Christian faith.
- Abide in Christ through prayer and studying the Bible. Jesus said in John 15:5 (NIV): “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Staying connected to Christ (The Word) is essential for living by faith.
- Walk in the Spirit, not the flesh. Paul urges in Galatians 5:16 (NIV): “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Dependence on the Holy Spirit enables you to overcome sinful desires.
- Let Christ live through you. Paul declared in Galatians 2:20 (NIV): “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Surrender yourself to Jesus each day.
- Set your mind on things above. Colossians 3:2 (NIV) commands: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Don’t become consumed by worldly concerns. Instead seek God’s kingdom and live by His principles.
- Walk by faith even when you cannot see the whole picture. 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV) says: “For we live by faith, not by sight.” Move forward in obedience even when you don’t understand everything.
- Ask God to increase your faith. Just as the apostles did in Luke 17:5 (NIV), you can cry out to God, “Increase my faith!” Express your dependence on Him. This will help you trust Him more.
It doesn’t matter what circumstances you face in life. These biblical principles will help you live a victorious life. Have faith in the promises of Christ. He will give you strength to overcome every challenge.
6 Key Benefits of Living by Faith
Living by faith comes with many rewards, both in this life and the next. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Peace and joy. By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, you receive divine peace and joy that surpasses human understanding (Philippians 4:7, NKJV). Choose faith over fear and experience deep contentment.
2. Victory over sin. Sin no longer has power over you because you now live to please Christ (Romans 6:11-14, NIV). As you walk in the Spirit, you experience victory over sinful addictions and desires.
3. Eternal life. Most importantly, living by faith secures eternal life. Those who trust in Jesus have the confident hope of heaven and dwelling forever in God’s presence (1 John 5:13, ESV).
4. Intimate fellowship with God. Faith leads to rich fellowship with God. You experience His presence daily through prayer, Scripture reading, and attending church. Boldly approach His throne of grace every day in prayer (Hebrews 4:16, NKJV).
5. Confidence and boldness. Faith banishes fear and anxiety. It gives you the boldness to follow Jesus and share your faith with others. Do not be ashamed of the Gospel (Romans 1:16, NIV).
6. Stability in trials. Everyone experiences trials, but faith anchors your soul. You will have strength and stability to persevere in trials (1 Peter 1:6-7, NIV). Trust in God’s purpose for you.
Living by faith enables us to receive these powerful benefits that come from walking with Jesus each day. He is our source of joy and peace in every season of life.
7 Key Bible Verses About Living By Faith
Many passages of Scripture equip us to live by faith and find our satisfaction in God alone. Here are some of the key Bible verses about living by faith to meditate on:
- “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6, NIV) Our faith honors God and moves Him to bless us.
- “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20, NIV) Christ now lives in and through us as we surrender to Him daily.
- “For through the Spirit we eagerly await by faith the righteousness for which we hope.” (Galatians 5:5, NIV) It is by faith that we wait for eternal life with expectant hope.
- “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1, NIV) Faith gives us confidence in God’s promises for our future.
- “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6, NIV) Pleasing God starts with believing He exists and that He rewards us for seeking Him.
- “For we live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7, NIV) We trust God’s Word as our guide, not our limited human vision.
- “But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.” (Hebrews 10:38, NIV) Those who live by faith persevere through every hardship.
Whatever you face today, cling to these promises. God will give you the faith to trust Him one step at a time and to receive His peace and grace.
How to Grow in Living by Faith Each Day
Living by faith is a daily journey of walking closely with Christ through every up and down. Here are 9 practical ways I’m growing in faith daily:
- Start each morning in prayer and Bible reading. Ask God to increase your faith and open your spiritual eyes. Read at least one chapter of the Bible to equip you for the day.
- Make Jesus your sole focus. Throughout the day, keep bringing your thoughts back to Christ and His presence. Pray about everything.
- Obey even when you don’t understand. If God calls you to act in faith, obey without delay. Walk through open doors and trust Him to direct your path.
- Believe God’s promises over your feelings. You may not always feel close to God, but believe His promises in Scripture. Stand on them.
- Fellowship regularly with other believers. Attend church each week, join a small group, and cultivate friendships with other Christians. This fuels faith.
- Give thanks in all circumstances. Even in trials, look for things to thank God for. Gratitude strengthens faith and keeps your focus on Jesus.
- Take bold risks for God. Don’t play it safe out of fear. Pray bold prayers that require divine intervention. Step out in courage.
- Don’t depend on your own strength. Rely completely on the Holy Spirit to help you overcome sin and walk uprightly. You can’t do it alone.
- Keep your eyes on eternity. Don’t lose heart; your struggles are momentary. Heaven awaits all who walk by faith in Christ.
If you fall into doubt or unbelief, confess it quickly to God. Repent and ask Him to increase your faith and give you abundant grace for the journey. He promises to complete His good work in you as you look to Him.
Conclusion
I hope this guide inspires you to place your confidence in Christ each day. He will empower you to live by faith and walk closely with Him all the days of your life.
“And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 (NLT)
Frequently Asked Questions About Living By Faith
Many people have questions about what it looks like to live by faith each day. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Q. Is living by faith opposed to logic and reason?
A. Not at all. Faith is confident trust in God’s truth but should align with wisdom and logic. The Bible says to love God with all our mind (Luke 10:27, NIV). Faith and reason work together.
Q. How do I live by faith when life gets difficult and painful?
A. Focus on God’s presence, His promises, and eternal perspective. Cling to Him in prayer and Scripture. Believe His grace is sufficient for you. Ask fellow Christians to support you in prayer.
Q. If I have faith, why do prayers sometimes go unanswered?
A. God answers every prayer, but sometimes the answer is “no” or “wait”. Trust His timing and wisdom. His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9, NIV). Keep praying in faith.
Q. How can my faith grow stronger?
A. Immerse yourself in Scripture. Pray continually, fellowship with believers, and give thanks always. Take bold steps of obedience to Christ. Depend fully on the Holy Spirit. Your faith will grow!
Q. Why is faith without action dead, like James says?
A. Because genuine faith produces fruit such as righteous conduct, obedience to Christ, and good works. Living faith is active, not passive. It displays itself through how we live.
Q. How can I be sure my faith is sincere, and not counterfeit?
A. Examine the fruit in your life. Are you growing in Christlikeness? Is your faith producing good deeds and obedience, done out of love for God? That demonstrates true faith.
Q. Some days I don’t feel close to God at all. Does this mean I don’t have faith?
A. Our feelings fluctuate, but faith stands on the truth of Christ. On days you feel distant from God, continue to pray, worship and give thanks. Believe He is near, regardless of emotions.
