Act In Faith

Acting in Faith: A Deeper Exploration

Faith is a powerful force that moves us from simply believing to taking tangible steps in obedience to God. Acting in faith means putting our trust into practice, especially when circumstances are challenging or the future is uncertain.

1. Faith as a Foundation for Action

Faith is not passive. It compels us to take steps that align with God’s will, even when we don’t see the full picture.

James 2:26 (NIV) - "As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."

This verse underscores the idea that faith must be accompanied by action. Merely believing without living out that belief renders our faith ineffective and incomplete.

2. Biblical Examples of Acting in Faith

a) Abraham: The Faith to Obey

Genesis 22:2-3 (NIV) - "Then God said, 'Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering...' Early the next morning Abraham got up..."

Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac shows profound faith. He didn’t delay or question God; he acted immediately, demonstrating trust that God would either provide or fulfill His promise another way (Hebrews 11:17-19).

b) Noah: The Faith to Prepare

Hebrews 11:7 (NIV) - "By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family."

Noah acted on God’s warning despite the absence of evidence of a flood. Building the ark was not just a physical task but a declaration of faith in God’s word.

c) Moses: The Faith to Lead

Exodus 14:21 (NIV) - "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea..."

When Moses stretched out his hand over the Red Sea, it wasn’t merely a gesture but an act of faith in God’s power to deliver. His willingness to act led to one of the greatest miracles in the Bible.

3. The Role of Obedience in Acting in Faith

Acting in faith is rooted in obedience, which means surrendering our will to God’s plans.

1 Samuel 15:22 (NIV) - "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams."

God values our willingness to act according to His instructions more than mere rituals or sacrifices. Obedience, fueled by faith, aligns us with His purpose.

4. Faith in the Face of Fear

Acting in faith doesn’t mean the absence of fear but rather moving forward despite it.

Peter Walking on Water (Matthew 14:28-31)

When Peter asked Jesus, "Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water," his request showed faith. Stepping out of the boat demonstrated his willingness to act on that faith. Even when fear caused him to sink, Jesus lifted him up, acknowledging his initial boldness.

Lesson: Fear can coexist with faith, but acting in faith means not allowing fear to dictate our choices.

5. Faith as a Journey: The Need for Perseverance

Faith requires consistency, not just a one-time decision.

Hebrews 10:36 (NIV) - "You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised."

Even when answers are delayed, acting in faith means continuing to obey, pray, and move forward.

Example: The Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)

This parable illustrates how persistent faith eventually brings justice. Acting in faith means not giving up, even when results are not immediate.

6. Acting in Faith Through Service

Faith is not self-centered; it drives us to serve and love others.

James 2:15-16 (NIV) - "Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?"

Faith is proven genuine when it translates into helping others. Loving and serving people, especially when it costs us something, reflects active faith.

7. The Reward of Acting in Faith

God honors those who act in faith, and blessings follow obedience.

Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) - "And without faith, it is impossible to please God..."

When we act in faith, God responds with favor, guidance, and often miraculous outcomes.

Example: The Healing of the Woman with the Issue of Blood (Mark 5:25-34)

Despite social stigma and fear, the woman’s faith moved her to touch Jesus’ cloak, and her healing followed. Jesus honored her faith, not just her touch.

Conclusion: Putting Faith into Action

Faith requires moving beyond words and feelings into tangible steps of obedience. Whether it’s stepping out of your comfort zone, persevering through trials, or serving others selflessly, acting in faith shows trust in God’s power and purpose.

May we be inspired by the biblical heroes who acted in faith and let our lives reflect the same boldness and commitment to God.