Substance of Faith

Most of us are all so familiar with the following Word from the Holy Bible:
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrew 11:1).
We are familiar, but do we really know this declaration to be true and do we really understand it?
Let's break it down. Substance is defined as something solid, defining, practical in quality and character. Other definitions include: that which has mass and occupies space, or the essential nature or essence.

In other words faith is the defining evidence that those things that we hope for shall come to pass (given that it is in the will and character of God). We must identify the role we play in receiving those things that we hope for. Yes, we have a role to play. Well many may argue that God can do anything and whenever and however He so desires. While He is able, He is not willing to lower himself to the menial being of a magician. God wants to develop in us a sense of responsibility and wellbeing and the inherent character of himself. To deny the process and substance of faith is to deny Himself. Everything that we receive we will obtain it only by faith; Whether it is salvation, deliverance, the immersion in the baptism of the Holy Spirit or simply our dream house. We must know that the fact that we believe, desire, ask, and hope is the evidence that that thing shall come to pass. You see when all these things are stirring up in the pot, it produces actions that equal the results of that thing that we have been hoping for. For example..many may say I want to get my degree in such and such area. There is no need to wonder if God is going to do it for you. No, God is saying will you believe me, believe that I want this to happen for you. Show me your works, I'll make a way. He is telling someone today to pick up the phone make an appointment to see the college/school advisor and God will meet you there. It is time for the people of God to begin to activate their faith in practical ways and stop waiting for something to appear in the sky. As you move in the direction of progression, God has provision already waiting for you by the substance of faith.

Chontay