Walking by faith is one of the most powerful and transformative aspects of the Christian journey. It means trusting in God’s plan and relying on His guidance, even when we don’t have all the answers or when our circumstances seem beyond our understanding. It’s about choosing to believe that God is with us, even when life doesn’t make sense.
We all face moments when life feels confusing or overwhelming – times when our plans fall apart, or we encounter unexpected challenges that seem impossible to navigate. It’s in these moments, when nothing seems to add up, that the true test of faith arises. Whether it’s a sudden loss, a health crisis, or financial struggles, we all have times when the road ahead is unclear.
But through it all, trusting God is the key to finding peace in the chaos. Even when the world around us is spinning, and the future seems uncertain, walking by faith allows us to hold onto the truth that God is in control. His wisdom and timing far exceed our understanding, and by trusting Him, we find the strength to press forward, even when things don’t make sense.
Understanding What It Means to Walk by Faith
Walking by faith is a foundational principle in the Christian life. From a Biblical perspective, walking by faith means choosing to trust in God’s guidance, promises, and timing, even when we don’t fully understand the situation or the outcome. It is an act of surrender, where we acknowledge that God knows what is best for us, even when our own understanding is limited.
Faith, as described in the Bible, is not simply believing in something intellectually or following our own instincts. It goes deeper than logic and human reasoning. While our minds may try to make sense of everything and calculate every possible outcome, walking by faith requires a willingness to step out in trust, even when we don’t have all the answers. It’s about putting our confidence in God, not in our ability to control or predict the future.
The Bible makes this distinction clear in several passages. In 2 Corinthians 5:7, it says, “For we live by faith, not by sight.” This verse reminds us that walking by faith is about looking beyond our immediate circumstances and trusting in God’s unseen plans. In Proverbs 3:5-6, we are urged to “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.” These verses highlight that faith is not relying on our own logic, but rather surrendering our will to God’s perfect understanding.
Walking by faith means trusting God’s direction, even when it doesn’t seem to align with what we see or feel in the moment. It requires a deep confidence in God’s wisdom and His promise to guide us, even when we can’t see the whole picture.
The Struggles We Face When Life Doesn’t Make Sense
Life has a way of throwing challenges at us that can feel overwhelming and impossible to understand. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a sudden health diagnosis, or financial difficulties, there are many situations that can leave us feeling lost, confused, and uncertain about the future. In these moments, it’s hard to see God’s plan or understand why things are happening the way they are. The path ahead often seems unclear, and we can find ourselves asking, “Why me?” or “What did I do wrong?”
Loss, in any form, is a particularly painful experience. Whether it’s the death of a family member, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a dream, grief can cloud our ability to think clearly and find peace. We may wrestle with feelings of abandonment or wonder why God allowed such heartache to come into our lives. During health problems, especially chronic illness or unexpected diagnoses, the sense of control can slip away. We may question why God allows suffering, and the emotional toll can be exhausting.
Financial struggles, too, can create immense stress and anxiety. When bills pile up and there seems to be no way out, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and abandoned. In these times, we may doubt God’s provision, even though He has promised to care for us. It can be difficult to hold on to the truth that God is with us, especially when our circumstances tell a different story.
These challenges bring with them a heavy emotional and mental burden. The pain of loss can cloud our minds with grief, and the uncertainty of health problems or financial troubles can lead to feelings of hopelessness. It’s easy to become anxious, discouraged, or even angry with God when we don’t understand the reasons behind our suffering. The emotional strain can cause us to question our faith, and the weight of mental exhaustion can make it difficult to see beyond our current situation.
Yet, even in these moments of doubt and confusion, there are countless stories of people who have walked through tremendous struggles while holding on to their faith. For example, Job in the Bible faced unimaginable loss and suffering, yet he never wavered in his trust in God. Despite losing his wealth, his health, and his family, Job declared, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15). His story is a testament to the power of unwavering faith, even when life doesn’t make sense.
Another powerful example is the Apostle Paul, who faced constant hardships, from imprisonment to persecution. Yet, he wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” Paul’s strength came from his reliance on God, even in the most difficult circumstances.
These real-life stories remind us that we are not alone in our struggles. While our pain and confusion may be overwhelming, God’s presence and His plan for our lives remain unshaken. Walking by faith doesn’t mean that we won’t face hard times, but it does mean that we can trust God’s faithfulness to see us through, even when we don’t understand why things are happening.
Trusting God in the Midst of Uncertainty
Faith does not mean having all the answers. In fact, it often means embracing the uncertainty and trusting that God is in control, even when the way forward is unclear. It’s easy to think that trusting God means understanding everything that happens in our lives, but the truth is, faith is about surrendering our need for control and accepting that God’s ways are higher than ours. The journey of faith is not about knowing all the details or seeing the full picture – it’s about trusting that God’s plan is unfolding, even when we can’t see it.
When life feels uncertain, it’s tempting to rely on our own logic or to look for answers in our circumstances. But walking by faith requires us to trust God’s plan, even when it’s not immediately visible. God often works behind the scenes in ways we can’t comprehend, and His timing is perfect – even when it seems delayed. Trusting God means believing that He is working for our good, even when things aren’t going according to our plans. It’s about holding on to the hope that God is faithful, even in the face of uncertainty.
Throughout the Bible, we see powerful examples of men and women who trusted God in the midst of great adversity, even when they didn’t understand the reasons behind their suffering.
One of the most well-known examples is Abraham. God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, yet he and his wife Sarah were childless well into their old age. Abraham’s faith was tested when God asked him to sacrifice his promised son, Isaac. In Hebrews 11:17-19, we are told that Abraham “reasoned that God could even raise the dead,” and he obeyed God without knowing how or why. Abraham’s trust in God, despite the seeming impossibility of the situation, is a powerful testimony of faith in action.
Similarly, Job’s story is one of profound trust in God, despite overwhelming suffering. Job lost everything – his wealth, his health, and his family – yet he never lost his faith in God. In the midst of his pain, he declared, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15). Job didn’t have the answers, and he didn’t understand why he was suffering, but he chose to trust God’s character and His sovereignty. In the end, God restored Job’s fortunes and blessed him even more than before, proving that His plan was far greater than Job could have imagined.
These stories remind us that faith is not about having all the answers or understanding every circumstance. It’s about trusting God’s character and believing that He is good, even when we can’t see how things will turn out. Abraham and Job trusted in God’s promises, even when the road ahead seemed uncertain. Likewise, we are called to walk by faith, trusting that God is leading us, even when the path is unclear.
When life feels uncertain, we can take comfort in the fact that God is with us, just as He was with Abraham, Job, and countless others throughout history. Trusting God in the midst of uncertainty is not easy, but it is the key to experiencing His peace and His faithfulness, even when we don’t have all the answers.
Practical Steps to Strengthen Your Faith
When life feels uncertain and our faith is tested, it’s important to actively take steps to strengthen our trust in God. Faith doesn’t just happen; it’s a muscle that needs to be exercised and nurtured. Here are some practical ways to grow in faith and deepen your relationship with God, even in the midst of challenges.
Prayer and Maintaining a Close Relationship with God
One of the most powerful ways to strengthen your faith is through prayer. Prayer is how we communicate with God, sharing our hearts, expressing our doubts, and seeking His guidance. It’s in the quiet moments of prayer that we open ourselves to God’s presence and hear His voice. By making prayer a daily habit, we invite God to guide us, comfort us, and remind us of His promises. A consistent prayer life helps us stay grounded in our relationship with God, even when circumstances feel uncertain. Through prayer, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and trust that He is always with us, no matter what.
Meditating on Scripture and Leaning on God’s Promises
The Bible is filled with promises from God that can help sustain us during difficult times. Meditating on Scripture allows us to focus on the truth of who God is and what He has promised to do for us. When life doesn’t make sense, turning to Scripture can bring comfort, hope, and clarity. Passages like Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose,” remind us that God is always working for our good, even when we can’t see it. By regularly reading and reflecting on God’s Word, we strengthen our trust in His faithfulness and grow in our understanding of His will.
Seeking Support from Fellow Believers and Community
We were never meant to walk through life alone, and in times of uncertainty, the support of fellow believers can be a great source of strength. When our faith falters, it’s important to lean on others for encouragement, prayer, and wisdom. Surrounding ourselves with a community of believers helps us stay grounded in our faith and reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles. Whether it’s through small groups, church services, or even just a conversation with a trusted friend, sharing our burdens with others can lighten the load and strengthen our resolve. Together, we can encourage one another and build each other up in faith.
Practicing Patience and Waiting on God’s Timing
Faith is not just about believing; it’s also about waiting. God’s timing is perfect, but it’s not always aligned with our own plans. Practicing patience is an essential part of walking by faith. It can be difficult to wait for answers or for God to move in our lives, but patience allows us to trust that God is at work, even when we can’t see the full picture. James 5:7 encourages us, “Be patient then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming.” Waiting on God’s timing is an act of faith that acknowledges that His ways are higher than our own. As we wait, we learn to trust that God is preparing us for what’s next, and that His plan for our lives is far better than anything we could imagine.
By incorporating these practical steps into our daily lives, we can strengthen our faith and deepen our trust in God, even when life doesn’t make sense. Prayer, meditation on Scripture, seeking community, and practicing patience are all powerful tools that help us grow in our relationship with God and remain steadfast in our faith. Trusting God is a journey, but with each step, we grow stronger and more confident in His love and faithfulness.
The Rewards of Walking by Faith
Walking by faith is not always easy, but the rewards that come from trusting God are immeasurable. While the journey may be difficult at times, choosing to walk by faith brings peace, fulfillment, and spiritual growth. Ultimately, it leads us to the greatest reward of all: eternal life with God, where all the mysteries of life will be revealed.
The Peace and Fulfillment that Comes from Trusting God
One of the most profound rewards of walking by faith is the peace that surpasses all understanding. When we trust God, even in the midst of uncertainty, we can experience a deep sense of peace, knowing that He is in control. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to bring our anxieties to God in prayer: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This peace is not based on our circumstances, but on the assurance that God is with us and will guide us through every trial. Trusting God provides a sense of fulfillment that comes from knowing we are following His plan, and that no matter what happens, He is with us every step of the way.
The Growth That Happens in a Believer’s Life Through Trials
Faith is often refined and strengthened through trials. It is in the midst of hardship that we learn to lean on God more fully and trust Him in ways we never could in times of comfort. James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” When we walk by faith through difficult circumstances, God uses those experiences to grow us spiritually. Our character is shaped, and our trust in God deepens as we witness His faithfulness firsthand. Though trials are hard, they have a purpose in our lives – to make us more like Christ and prepare us for the greater purposes He has for us.
The Ultimate Hope of Eternal Life with God
While the peace and growth we experience in this life are significant, the ultimate reward of walking by faith is the hope of eternal life with God. No matter how difficult our trials may be, they are temporary compared to the eternal joy and fulfillment that await us in heaven. Revelation 21:4 tells us that in God’s presence, there will be no more pain, suffering, or tears: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Walking by faith means holding onto this eternal perspective, knowing that our current struggles are not in vain. The hope of eternal life with God gives us the strength to endure, knowing that one day, all the mysteries and questions of life will be revealed, and we will be united with Him forever.
In the end, walking by faith brings incredible rewards that go beyond what we can see or experience in this life. The peace that comes from trusting God, the growth we undergo through trials, and the ultimate hope of eternal life with Him are the treasures we gain through faith. Even when life doesn’t make sense, we can take comfort in knowing that God is working in us and through us, preparing us for a future that is filled with joy, peace, and the fullness of His presence.
Encouraging Words for When You Feel Like Giving Up
There are times when life feels overwhelming, and faith seems like an uphill battle. When the weight of challenges becomes too heavy to bear, it’s easy to feel discouraged and question whether it’s worth continuing. If you’re struggling in your faith today, know that you’re not alone. Many believers have faced moments of doubt, but they’ve also experienced the unwavering presence and faithfulness of God. Take heart, for there is always hope, even in the darkest of times.
Encouragement for Those Struggling in Their Faith
If you feel like giving up, I want to remind you that faith is not about perfection. It’s about perseverance. God doesn’t expect us to have everything figured out or to always be strong. What matters is that we keep choosing to trust Him, even when the way forward seems unclear. When you’re struggling, it’s okay to admit your doubts and fears, but don’t let them define you. Remember, God is with you in your weakness. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul reminds us that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” You don’t have to have it all together—just keep leaning on God, and He will carry you through.
God’s Presence Is Constant, Even in Moments of Doubt
During times of doubt and struggle, it can feel as though God is distant, but nothing could be further from the truth. God’s presence is constant, and He is always near, even when we don’t feel Him. The psalmist writes in Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” When we’re hurting, God is especially close, offering His comfort and peace. In moments of doubt, we can trust that God is still working behind the scenes, even when we can’t see or understand His plan. His love for you never wavers, and His presence is a constant source of strength.
A Powerful Testimony of Overcoming Doubt and Trusting God
One powerful testimony of overcoming doubt and trusting God comes from the life of a woman named Sarah, who had struggled with infertility for many years. Despite her deep desire to have children, she faced years of heartache and unanswered prayers. She doubted God’s promises and wondered why her dreams were not being realized. Yet, even in the midst of her pain, Sarah chose to trust that God had a plan for her life. She continued praying and leaning on God’s promises, holding onto hope even when circumstances seemed impossible. Years later, Sarah’s prayers were answered, and she became a mother to twins, an answer to her long-awaited dreams. Through her journey, Sarah learned that God’s timing is always perfect, and while we may face seasons of waiting, His plan for us is always worth the wait.
Sarah’s story is a reminder that our doubts do not disqualify us from God’s grace. In fact, they can deepen our reliance on Him and strengthen our faith. When we choose to trust God, even in our moments of doubt, we open ourselves to His transformative power. Trusting God is not about having all the answers – it’s about choosing to believe in His goodness and faithfulness, even when the road is unclear.
If you’re feeling like giving up, I want to encourage you to keep going. Your faith is being tested, but it is also being refined. Trust that God is with you every step of the way, and know that His presence is constant, even when you doubt. Your breakthrough may be just around the corner, and the reward for your perseverance is greater than you can imagine. Keep holding on to hope, and keep trusting in the One who is faithful to fulfill His promises.
Conclusion
In life, there will always be times when things don’t make sense. Whether it’s dealing with personal loss, facing health struggles, or walking through financial difficulties, it can be incredibly difficult to understand why these challenges come our way. However, as we’ve explored, walking by faith means trusting in God even when the answers are not clear, knowing that He is always with us and working for our good. Faith isn’t about having all the answers – it’s about choosing to trust in God’s character, relying on His promises, and persevering even in the face of uncertainty.
By prayerfully staying close to God, meditating on His Word, seeking support from others, and practicing patience, we can strengthen our faith and trust that He will guide us through every storm. Just as Abraham, Job, and countless other biblical figures found peace and fulfillment in trusting God, so can we. And ultimately, the greatest reward of walking by faith is the eternal hope we have in Christ, where all of life’s mysteries will be made clear, and we will be united with Him forever.
I encourage you today to take the next step in your faith journey. Whether you need to pray more fervently, trust more fully, or lean on others for support, know that God is always ready to meet you where you are. His love for you never changes, and He is faithful to guide you every step of the way.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your constant presence in our lives. Even when we face uncertainty, we can trust that You are in control and working for our good. Help us to walk by faith, relying on Your promises and Your timing. Strengthen our hearts and minds as we face trials, and remind us of Your unfailing love and grace. May we always remember that You are with us, even in the moments of doubt, and may we hold fast to the hope of eternal life with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.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