Full of Faith

Approaching God has always been a subject that has produced different responses from many groups of people and religions across the world. Some think they can come on their own terms and according to their own 'truth', while others think that God could never accept them because of all that they've done and all that they've been through. The reality is that we have a clear directive from God's word that tells us how to approach Him and it's stated in a simple yet profound way in Hebrews 11:6: ... But without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him], for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. The Message Bible makes it even more descriptive and compelling in everyday language:

It's impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him.

What an amazing picture of how simple it is to come to Him, while still holding true to how deeply we must believe in and commit to Him. God has set us up to succeed in that He tells us to come and seek Him by faith and that He actually 'cares enough to respond to those who seek Him.' He cares so much so that He provided His only son so that we could be reconciled through the forgiveness of our sins, provides the ability for us to do what He sets before us, remains unchanging in the way He relates to us throughout time, and loves us unconditionally through it all. If anyone was ever deserving of our faith, it is Him.

Whether you're going through something difficult or all seems well, remember that He is unfailing in His promises and love toward those who seek Him (Psalm 119:89-90; Psalm 103:17-18). He has shown Himself to be trustworthy, always working things out for our good (Romans 8:28). He is the one who knows the beginning from the end, and no matter what you see with your natural eyes, you can always have faith in God, knowing that He has your best in mind. He has said, 'I will never leave you or forsake you' (Hebrews 13:5) so you can trust in Him with all your heart (Proverbs 3:5-6). He truly is the rewarder of those who seek Him diligently, with a heart that's full of faith.