April 8: Evidence of Things Not Seen

Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (KJV). Please understand that this verse does not state that faith is the evidence of things that do not exist. Faith is the evidence of things you cannot see. These things already exist in God, but you cannot see them yet. Live by faith. God says, “I will supply all your needs. Trust me to do it.” Trusting God’s word is faith in action.

If you have been mentally assenting to the truth, but not acting on it, you have been living below your privilege. Again, James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourself. Do what it says.” This verse separates mental assent from faith. If you think just listening to the Word makes a difference, you deceive yourself. You must apply what you hear by living and acting on it.

Jesus said to the chief priests and elders, “There was a man who had two sons, he went to the first and said, ‘son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “the first,” they answered (Matthew 21:28-31). The second son assented to obey, but never took action. The first son, though initially rebellious, later met his father’s request. We cannot say we believe; we have to live out our faith by doing what God asks. Note: If you have been only mentally assenting to the truth, you have been waiving your privilege.

Let’s pray: Father, You have promised to meet the needs of Your children. Help me to trust You and to act in faith even when what You’ve promised isn’t visible. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today’s reading: 1 Samuel 10-12; Luke 9:37-56

Faith is Hearing the Word, Believing and Acting on It.