“Faith comes from hearing and hearing by the word of Christ.” Romans 10:17
Faith is essential in everything we do as believers. Yet, we often struggle in our faith when face-to-face with the realities of everyday life. So how do we learn to have greater faith? Well, we certainly can’t generate it on our own—faith comes.
Faith comes by hearing. So we have to hear what God says. He gives us His Word and enables us to believe (Ephesians 2:8–9). We first believe for salvation, which is the ultimate purpose of faith. But then Scripture challenges and strengthens our faith for everyday life. That means we need to hear from Him daily. The Lord never forces us to hear Him…it’s a choice.
Remember, when God speaks to us it’s not for our information but for our transformation. Spiritual maturity requires constantly adjusting our thoughts and attitudes to align with God’s will (Romans 8:6). The Bible, not our feelings, should determine our faith. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with emotion; emotional enjoyment is a gift from God. But the misuse of emotion poses a real threat to spiritual maturity.
Never ask of the Bible, “How do I feel about that?” Ask, “How am I obeying that?” Obedience is to faith what gas is to a car. Your car might have the greatest engine ever built but without gas it won’t move unless you push it. Sadly, many of us are the same way. When was the last time you had to be pushed or pulled into obeying some part of God’s Word? Anytime we stubbornly cling to our own agenda we’re displaying weak faith.
You see, the life of faith is not about getting our will done in Heaven but getting God’s will done on Earth. We either release our faith to accomplish His will, or we rely on our flesh to accomplish our will. Faith grows through obedience—living in accordance with God’s Word and God’s will.
What distracts you from hearing the Word of God? Busyness? If you’re too busy to study your Bible, then you’re too busy! Are your feelings getting in the way of your faith? Trusting emotions is hazardous to your spiritual health. Always check your feelings against Scripture. Finally, are you heeding what you’ve heard? You can’t work up greater faith in and of yourself. Faith comes as you hear God’s Word and submit your mind, will, and emotions to God’s authority.