Faith's Nature

Perhaps you’ve heard of someone being described as “good-natured.” What does this mean? The individual possesses qualities generally regarded as good; he is upright in character and demeanor. Perhaps you’ve seen someone dismiss their bad behavior, saying, “It’s just my nature.” They mean there are certain attitudes and actions they inherently have and do. Nature can be very telling, revealing the deeper truth concerning a person or a concept. Nature can be defined as “the innate or essential qualities or character of a thing.” One of the most misunderstood concepts of the Bible is faith. Let’s use this idea to discover the truth of God’s Word together. What’s is faith’s nature?

Faith has a believing nature. Many people present faith as empty wishful thinking. They call faith a belief in something against reason, or despite the evidence. According to God, faith is just the opposite. Faith is a conviction or confidence in the truth of something (2 Cor 5:6-9). To have faith is to be firmly persuaded based upon supporting evidence (Rom 8:38-39). Specifically, true faith believes in God and the truth of His promises (Heb 11:1-6). Seeing how faith and belief are linked, one could not have faith without a message. In the New Testament, belief is prompted by gospel preaching (Acts 8:12; 14:1). Likewise, our faith comes from hearing and believing the Word of God (Rom 10:17).

Faith has a hardy nature. We see that true faith must be developed, continuing to grow stronger and overcoming trials. This is a part of God’s design for strengthening the church (1 Pet 1:6-7; 2 Pet 1:5-8). The Christian carries faith (assurance of the truth of God and His Word) as a shield in spiritual battle (Psa 28:7; Eph 6:16). Therefore, we are enabled to be joyful through trials and persecutions (Matt 5:10-12; Jam 1:2-3). We know that these hardships work to develop for us a more robust faith.

Faith has an obedient nature. Belief certainly doesn’t mean much if we do not act upon it (John 12:42-43). Works of submissive obedience are the evidence of true faith (Jam 2:14-18). Actions which acknowledge God’s authority will perfect (bring to completion) our belief (Jam 2:20-22). It is this obedient faith which works together with God’s grace, bringing us salvation (John 3:16, Acts 2:37-38; Rom 5:1-2; 6:17; Eph 2:8; Jam 2:24). A faith which does not obey is a dead faith, belonging to one dead in their sins (Eph 2:1-3; Jam 2:26).

Now you understand the nature of biblical faith. Take time to examine yourself (2 Cor 13:5). Draw closer to God and His Word (Psa 73:28; Heb 10:19-23; Jam 4:8). True faith is believing, hardy, and obedient. Ask yourself, “What is the nature of my faith?” Does it match the teaching of the Bible?