Introduction
Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God. The Bible tells us in Hebrews 11:6 that “without faith, it is impossible to please God.” Yet, faith is not something static; it can grow and deepen as we walk with the Lord. Today, we will explore practical ways to increase our faith, drawing lessons from Scripture and the examples of faithful men and women who came before us.
1. Understand What Faith Is
Faith is not merely believing in God’s existence; it is trusting in His character, promises, and power. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
Faith involves:
- Believing in God’s Word (Romans 10:17): Faith comes by hearing and hearing through the Word of God.
- Trusting in God’s Character: God is faithful, unchanging, and always good (Lamentations 3:22-23).
- Stepping Out in Obedience: True faith leads to action, as seen in James 2:17, which reminds us that “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
Application: Examine your understanding of faith. Do you simply believe, or do you trust God in all areas of your life?
2. Faith Comes by Hearing God’s Word
Romans 10:17 tells us that “faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the Word of Christ.” The more we immerse ourselves in Scripture, the more our faith is strengthened.
- Meditate on God’s Promises: Reading and meditating on promises like Philippians 4:19 (“My God will meet all your needs”) increases confidence in God’s provision.
- Study Biblical Examples: Consider how God was faithful to Abraham (Genesis 22), Moses (Exodus 14), and David (1 Samuel 17). Their faith grew as they witnessed God’s power.
Application: Make Bible reading a daily habit. Let God’s Word feed your spirit and deepen your trust in Him.
3. Pray for Greater Faith
The disciples asked Jesus, “Increase our faith!” (Luke 17:5). This shows that even those who walked with Christ recognized their need for a deeper faith.
- Pray Honestly: Like the father in Mark 9:24, pray, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
- Ask for the Holy Spirit’s Help: The Holy Spirit strengthens and empowers us in our weakness (Romans 8:26-27).
Application: Regularly ask God to increase your faith, especially in areas where you struggle to trust Him.
4. Act on the Faith You Have
Faith grows through action. James 2:26 reminds us, “Faith without works is dead.” When we take steps of obedience, even when the outcome is uncertain, our faith is strengthened.
- Obedience Leads to Growth: Peter stepped out of the boat and walked on water because he trusted Jesus (Matthew 14:29). Even when he faltered, his faith grew from the experience.
- Faith is Tested Through Trials: James 1:2-3 tells us to “consider it pure joy” when we face trials because testing produces perseverance and strengthens our faith.
Application: Step out in faith in areas where God is calling you to trust Him. Small acts of obedience lead to greater confidence in God’s faithfulness.
5. Surround Yourself with People of Faith
Faith is contagious. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Fellowship with other believers can inspire and encourage your faith.
- Learn from Others’ Testimonies: Hearing how God has worked in others’ lives builds our confidence in Him.
- Encourage One Another: Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
Application: Join a Bible study group or church fellowship where you can share your struggles, receive encouragement, and grow together in faith.
6. Remember God’s Faithfulness
Reflecting on how God has worked in your life in the past can strengthen your faith for the future.
- Look Back on God’s Goodness: David trusted God to defeat Goliath because he remembered how God delivered him from the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:37).
- Thankfulness Increases Faith: Cultivate a habit of gratitude. Psalm 103:2 says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”
Application: Keep a journal of answered prayers and God’s blessings in your life. Reflect on these during times of doubt.
7. Focus on Jesus, the Author of Faith
Faith grows as we fix our eyes on Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 encourages us to look to “Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.”
- Jesus Is Our Example: He trusted the Father completely, even unto death (Luke 22:42).
- Jesus Is Our Source of Strength: Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Application: When doubts arise, redirect your focus to Jesus through prayer, worship, and meditation on His life and promises.
Conclusion
Faith is a journey, not a destination. It grows as we hear God’s Word, pray, act in obedience, fellowship with others, and remember God’s faithfulness. Most importantly, it grows as we fix our eyes on Jesus.
Call to Action: Are you ready to take the next step to grow in faith? Start by dedicating time daily to Scripture, prayer, and trusting God in small, practical ways. As you do, you will see your faith deepen and your relationship with God flourish.
Closing Verse: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). May this be our prayer and practice as we seek to increase our faith. Amen.
