“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen—for by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.”Hebrews 11:1-3
When it all comes down to it, it’s a matter of trust—i.e., simply taking God at His Word.
Faith.
What is it? We talk much about it, but do we really understand it; even more do we really exercise it in our daily lives?
At first glance, today’s Manna is difficult to grasp. The first part—“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”—sounds good, but we have difficulty explaining it to someone else (or understanding it ourselves).
What is “the substance of things hoped for”?
When we realize the Greek word “hupostasis” is used for “substance” and also means “a setting under, that which supports, essence, assurance, confidence, etc.,” then it takes on new meaning. And, another way to describe it would be “Faith is the ‘foundation’ or basis of my hope.”
Then, when we understand the word “evidence” (Grk. “elegchos”) basically means “proof”—and has been likened to the title-deed of a piece of property—a whole new understanding is opened to us.
Thus, faith is the “essence” and “expression” of Hope.
It is that vital link of trust in a trustworthy God that causes us to act in confidence even though there is no tangible, external evidence that warrants such behavior. Or, as someone once said, “It is seeing that which is not and calling it so.” Glory!!
Truly, “through faith we understand the earth, sun, moon, stars, planet, etc., were framed (Grk. ‘katartizo’—‘to complete thoroughly, prepare, etc.’) by the Word of God.” Or, as we read in Genesis, “And, God said, ‘Let there be ________ and there was ________’.” Others may try to explain creation by theories like the Big Bang and evolution; but, by faith we say “The Bible says God did it by speaking and that’s good enough for me.” And, when they object, you need only ask them, “Okay, where did the ‘stuff’ come from that produced the Big Bang?”—for there had to first be something there (e.g., gases, matter, etc.) before such an explosion could occur. And, you’ll find they’ll be hard-pressed to give an answer.
No, much better to be childlike in our approach and understanding. Then, we can say “The things which are seen weren’t made of the things that already existed.” Truly, “The earth was without form and void—a shapeless, matter-less vacuum—and from that ‘nothingness’ God created all that is” (Gen. 1:2). And, then begin to hum, “Only believe, only believe, all things are possible, only believe.” Simple, childlike faith/trust. Thank You,
By Tom Smith Morning Manna Dated March 18, 2011
