(Journal #1: January 10, 2005) Post #5

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

It’s easy to talk about faith and believe you have it when things are going great. But what is it really?  

Substance:  ultimate reality that underlies all outward manifestations and change; the real physical matter of what a person or thing exists; the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience.

Hoped for:  anticipated; awaited, expected; desired; the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best.

Evidence: your basis for belief or disbelief; knowledge on which to base belief; an indication that makes something evident; grounds, proof, obviousness; the available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.

So, Lord, Your Word and Your faithfulness are the substance (the vital part) of what I hope for (await), the evidence (proof, grounds) of what I do not see.

Faith requires waiting, doesn’t it, Lord?  You just showed me that in the example of Daniel.

Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.

Hebrews: 11:6 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.