What does it Mean that Faith is the Evidence of Things Not Seen in Hebrews 11:1?

Hebrews 11:1 is a profound verse that outlines the essence of faith. The text states, 'Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.'

Substance of Things Hoped For

This phrase suggests that faith provides a foundation or assurance for what believers hope for. It implies that faith gives a sense of reality and certainty to future promises even if they are not yet realized. Faith is more than just wishful thinking; it is a confident expectation based on trust in God.

Evidence of Things Not Seen

This part emphasizes that faith serves as proof or conviction regarding things that cannot be perceived with the senses. It highlights the idea that faith is a way of understanding and believing in spiritual truths and realities that are beyond physical observation. Many aspects of spiritual life, such as God's existence, His promises, and the afterlife, cannot be seen or measured in a tangible way.

Overall Interpretation

Together, these phrases suggest that faith is a deep-seated trust in God and His promises. It encourages believers to hold onto their hopes and beliefs even in the absence of physical evidence. This kind of faith is often seen as essential for a relationship with God as it enables individuals to navigate uncertainty and challenges while remaining anchored in their convictions.

Hebrews 11:1 encapsulates the essence of faith as a confident assurance in the unseen realities of God’s promises and the spiritual realm, encouraging believers to trust in what they cannot physically see.

Faith Changes the Unseen into the Seen

Faith is the spiritual force that creates change in this world. It makes the things we hope for become reality in this dimension. Faith is not a magical force that we use to get things, but it is aligning our profession and confession with His word while walking in love.

Trust is believing that God is able to keep His promises. Hope is not hope if you can see it. Hope is the blueprint of faith, and faith is the servant of the believer. Only those who walk in love and have a strong hope will be able to use their faith to bring it to pass. Faith only works in bringing out God's will, not to get things but to align our actions with His purpose.

Faith as a Spiritual Force

Faith comes from hearing and hearing by the word of God. Faith only operates in love. If there is strife, division, unforgiveness, or hatred, it will short circuit the faith you have. Only those who walk in love will be able to operate in faith.

Aligning with God's Will

Once the word of God returns to Him through our hearts, it is accomplished, and faith creates a new reality. Faith is bound to His word, His will, His love, and His hope. We are only accessing the promises given in His word by borrowing His faith and aligning with His will. Understanding His hope and making it our goal in line with His goal is essential.

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, and it is the evidence of the unseen realm, which causes angels to move, causes demons to flee, and creates God's will in our lives. We become the believing partner with Him to produce light to this world.

By understanding and abiding by these principles, believers can effectively navigate life’s challenges, trusting in a higher purpose and the unseen promises of God.