Faith is trusting in who God says He is. Faith is essential for a relationship with God, as it is through faith that we are justified and able to please Him (Hebrews 11:6). It is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9) that cannot be earned, and it connects us to Him through Jesus Christ. Faith allows us to believe in things not seen and gives us the assurance of hope (Hebrews 11:1-3). As we grow in our knowledge and trust of God, our faith becomes stronger, even through trials that build endurance and character (James 1:2-4, Romans 5:1-5). Ultimately, faith leads us to salvation and allows the ongoing transformation of our hearts and lives (1 Peter 1:8-
9).
Faith alone separates those who belong to God and those who do not. It i
s not the level of evil or the level of goodness in each person. It is only our relationship to God through Jesus—and that takes faith.As we get to know God through the Bible, our faith in Him grows more relevant and full. Exercising our faith strengthens it, like a muscle. This is the only way we can grow in our trust in God and understand such verses such as James 1:2-4 and Romans 8:28
.By faith, we are justified (declared righteous) before God and brought into relationship with Him. Faith also helps us endure suffering, trusting that God can and will use it ultimately for our good and His glory, as Romans 8:28 promises. Faith is central to the Christian life—beginning at the moment of salvation and carrying through our entire journey with God. Because our faith is in God, we have a sure and firm foundation.