Learning How to Walk by Faith and Not Sight
It’s easy to trust in God when things are going well; the true challenge lies in learning how to walk by faith and not sight regardless of the circumstances. Every believer can improve their faith. Today we’ll discuss some of the steps you can start taking today to expand your faith and positively impact your relationship with God.
What is Faith?
Faith is at the center of our belief and relationship with God. It is the complete trust and confidence that He will steer our path according to his will – if we let Him. 2nd Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
Learning how to walk by faith and not sight is learning to let go and give control to God. Jesus gives us countless examples in the Bible where faith was key. From calming the storms when his disciples doubted him to healing the woman who only touched his garment, faith is the thread that holds our belief together.
Expressing your faith daily shows God that you have not only given him your heart, but your life. This means trusting that he is Jehovah Jireh, or the God who provides.
Learning How to Walk by Your Faith and Not Sight
So, how can you improve and walk in faith every day? The base to strengthening your faith begins by reading and leaning on God’s word in the Bible.
You can then use these readings to help guard your thoughts and words. What we think becomes what we say, and what we say grows to become what we believe.
Once you have gotten a reign on your thoughts, you can change your actions to align with them. This is called putting action behind your faith.
Finally, and most importantly, learning how to walk by faith and not sight means trusting God before, during, and after the process.
1. Read the Bible
Reading the word of God is like finding a spring in the desert. Filled with God’s guidance, you can find plenty of examples, morals, and convictions to keep your faith on track.
Romans 10:17 states, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” We cannot have much faith if we don’t know what we’re trusting in, and that’s exactly what we can find in the Bible.
2. Guard Your Thoughts
If you let doubts enter your thoughts, those doubts soon become words and then actions. Stepping into faith requires you to let go of your fears, whether they be about your health, financial situation, or interpersonal relationships.
Matthew 6:34 says, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” You don’t need to worry about tomorrow because God is taking care of it.
If a negative thought enters your mind, immediately rebuke it. Cite a Bible verse or give that thought up to God, reminding yourself that he is in control.
One great verse to remember in these times is Philippians 4:6–7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
3. Put Action Behind Your Faith
Once you can control your thoughts, it’s time to step into faith – literally. Learning how to walk by faith and not sight takes hold through action.
In Joshua 1:9 the Lord tells us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
If you are trusting that God will take care of your health, step forward in faith and declare that you are healthy and strong. Make your plans for the future while asking God for guidance.
If you are experiencing financial strain but trusting the Lord to provide, do your part and put forth all the effort you can to step out of that financial pitfall. The Lord will work with those who step out into faith.
If you are struggling in a personal relationship but you know that God has prepared a beautiful life for you and your family, trust in Him and step forward. Forgive those who have hurt you and show love to everyone – even your enemies.
These are all small examples of putting action behind your faith during trials and tribulations. James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
4. Trust in God
The final step in learning how to walk by faith and not sight is not the end, but the beginning. We must trust in God throughout our journey. From when we read our Bible to when we work on transforming our negative thoughts, God must be at the forefront of it all.
Through each step, give thanks to God for all he has done and will do. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.”
Final Thoughts on Learning How to Walk by Faith and Not Sight
Even in moments of difficulty, we can rest knowing that God holds us in the palm of his hand. Proverbs 3:5–6 says it best, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”
Lean on Him when you walk in faith, and your paths will lead you to his glory.
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