Before we get too far into the year, putting our best faith forward, let’s take a moment to actually define faith.

The best definition of faith is found in Hebrews 11:1 (CSB), which says, “Now faith is the reality [or assurance] of what is hoped for, the proof [or conviction] of what is not seen.” In other words, it is knowing that something is true and acting upon it, even if you can’t touch it or see it.

Jesus, in His patience and grace, had an experience with His disciples after His resurrection which perfectly makes this point. The account is recorded in the Gospel of John, chapter 20 beginning in verse 19, where Jesus appeared to the disciples for the first time after the resurrection. However, one disciple, Thomas, wasn’t among them at the time and so missed this incredible moment of seeing the physical, risen Jesus. He remarked, “If I don’t see the mark of the nails in his hands, put my finger into the mark of the nails, and put my hand into his side, I will never believe.” (John 20:25) This is where we get the maxim, “doubting Thomas.”

But Jesus is so kind. He reappears to them all a week later to prove to Thomas that though He really was dead, He really is now alive. Jesus encouraged Thomas to touch His hands and His side – to physically examine Him. Then Jesus admonished him saying, “Don’t be faithless, but believe.” At this, Thomas rightly exclaimed, “My Lord and my God!”

Jesus went on to declare to Thomas, and presumably the others in attendance as well, “Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” (John 20:29 CSB) This is the faith to which Hebrews 11:1 refers.

One day all will be revealed, and the truth of His atoning death and triumphant resurrection will be evident to all. But blessed are those who understand this now and live it out daily in faith.

Jesus said that as surely as He lives, on the great Day of Judgement, “every knee will bow to me, and every tongue will give praise to God.” (Romans 14:11 CSB) He is physically alive and in heaven, seated at the right hand of Father God (Mark 16:19). I don’t know about you, but I very much look forward to Heaven. It will be glorious! My heart sings at the thought of being with Him – My Lord and my God.

At this moment I can’t see Him with my natural eyes or touch Him with my hands, but I believe that reality more than I believe anything that I can see and touch on this earth.

Beloved, we put our best faith forward when we demonstrate daily our conviction of the eternal reality of our hope which we don’t yet see with our physical eyes. Perhaps the Apostle Peter said it best, “Though you have not seen him, you love him; though not seeing him now, you believe in him, and you rejoice with inexpressible and glorious joy” (1 Peter 1:8 CSB).

Take a moment this month to examine your faith. How do you live out your conviction of faith in Jesus? Even if you have doubts, remember that Jesus is willing to help you in your areas of unbelief (Mark 9:23-25). Feel free to reach out to your pastor, contact us here at OneTen Ministries by replying to this email, or check out our website for free resources to help you in your faith journey.

And remember to put your best faith forward, in faith!