FAITH DOESN’T ADD UP!

FAITH DOESN’T ADD UP!

Heb 11:1

11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

          Math, at least the kind of math I am familiar with, is an exact and unforgiving science. Two plus Two is always four. But faith applies the same formula and comes up with more. Faith is able to construct what engineering can’t.

          This is the only place in the Bible where we have what might be called a definition of faith. The rest of the chapter lists the exploits accomplished by faith. They are unbelievable things. Faith just doesn’t add up. The word translated “substance" occurs in Heb 3:14; 2 Cor 9:4; 11:17, and is translated "confidence." The word translated "evidence" is from a verb which signifies "to convince." "Faith is the confidence of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

          Faith sometimes means that conviction of the understanding which results from proofs laid before it, or arguments understood. This is that which the woman wrought among her neighbors when she came back from the conversation with Jesus at Jacob's well. This also is the faith which Thomas had when asked to put his hand in the side of his Lord. But our Lord immediately added, "Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed."

          If you read the rest of chapter 11 you clearly see an element of uncertainty in every act of faith. Noah’s act of building a huge boat to spare a remnant of creation had no reasonable foundation. He was moved by fear, the Bible says. Motivated by an internal uneasiness and a firm conviction that an impossible thing was about to happen.

How Firm A Foundation

When through the deep waters I call thee to go,

The rivers of woe shall not thee overflow;

For I will be with thee, thy troubles to bless,

And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.

When through fiery trials thy pathways shall lie,

My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply;

The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design

Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.

Dear Lord! It doesn’t add up but I will say yes. AMEN