I was always fascinated by the nature of faith. Through faith our ancestors were saved and it is also by this means we are to please God. Throughout the journey of life the complexity of the divine nature of faith seemed to have eluded me. As I traveled the furthest reaches of the east and the deepest valleys of the west, the mystery of faith far exceeded these reaches and the depths. Yet this divine mystery defines the basis by which the Christian communes with his El Shaddai, the God Almighty of our ancestors.
It dawned upon me one day that amongst this complexity, however, the mystery of faith is evident in its divine simplicity. Hebrews 11:5 states, “By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: ‘He could not be found, because God had taken him away.’ For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.” The above passage is conclusive in illustrating that faith results in a lifestyle that is pleasing to God; however, the lifestyle is the fruits of faith – it does not adequately describe faith. One can be considered righteous, yet it is the works of the righteous through faith that God distinguishes as His own. As a righteous lifestyle results from our faith, so does faith results from knowing God intimately. The intimacy, which was only possible by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, paves the road through trials by which our faith matures. By trials do we recognize God’s strength; His faithfulness becomes evident and God’s innermost desires and character are revealed, through which we are molded to become like His Son.
Only through faith is it possible to lead a lifestyle that is pleasing to God. By not only understanding God’s character, but knowing it personally and intimately can we make choices that are reflective of his character. Faith is not receiving direct instruction from God concerning the course of action one must make, yet it is the beliefs and choices which are in alignment to God’s will resulting from an intimate relationship with our creator. Just as an obedient child pleases their father and mother, in the same way we are to please our Heavenly Father through faith.
Living by faith certainly has its challenges. As we mature in faith, the prevalence of sin becomes more evident and our choices are often at enmity with the popular belief. It often creates isolation and can result in loneliness and persecution. However, God is faithful, even when we are not, and promises to be by our side during trials and tribulations. Why do we succumb to the wiles of our imagination? Did Yeshua Ha-Mashiach not say “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.” Matthew 6:28-29. Being in a relationship with the Lord is more fulfilling and gratifying than the greatest splendor and temptations of this world. The richness that persists in close communion with God is the greatest joy one can experience and is the only way to lead a truly fulfilling life.