The phrase “walking by faith, not by sight” is more than a catchy slogan—it’s a profound call to trust God in every circumstance, even when the path ahead is unclear. In a world that values logic, tangible evidence, and instant results, walking by faith can feel counterintuitive, even risky.
Yet, this biblical principle is at the heart of what it means to live as a follower of Christ. In this post, we’ll explore what walking by faith looks like in today’s world and how it can transform your daily life.
Understanding the Biblical Principle
The concept of walking by faith comes from (2 Corinthians 5:7), where Paul writes, “We live by faith, not by sight.”
In context, Paul is encouraging believers to focus on eternal realities rather than temporary circumstances. He writes, “We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18).
Walking by faith means trusting God’s promises and character, even when we can’t see the outcome or understand the process.
It’s not about ignoring reality or denying our circumstances, but about seeing our lives through the lens of God’s truth and promises.
Biblical Examples of Walking by Faith
The Bible is filled with stories of people who walked by faith. Abraham left his homeland, not knowing where he was going, because he trusted God’s promise (Hebrews 11:8).
Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, trusting God to guide them through the wilderness. Rahab risked her life to protect the Israelite spies, believing in the God of Israel (Joshua 2).
These examples show that walking by faith often means stepping into the unknown, trusting God’s word more than our own understanding.
Modern Applications of Walking by Faith
In today’s world, walking by faith might look like:
- Making a Career Change: Following God’s leading, even if it doesn’t make sense financially or professionally.
- Choosing Forgiveness: Letting go of bitterness and trusting God to heal your heart and restore relationships.
- Giving Generously: Sharing your resources with others, even when money is tight, believing that God will provide for your needs.
- Sharing Your Faith: Talking about Jesus with friends or coworkers, even if you’re unsure how they’ll respond.
Walking by faith is not just for big, life-changing decisions. It’s also for the small, everyday choices that shape our character and relationships.
Walking by Faith in Times of Suffering
One of the greatest tests of faith comes in times of suffering or hardship. When we face illness, loss, or disappointment, it’s natural to question God’s goodness or presence. But walking by faith means choosing to trust God even when we don’t understand His plan.
Job is a powerful example. After losing his children, his wealth, and his health, he declared, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him” (Job 13:15).
Job didn’t have all the answers, but he chose to trust God’s character. His faith was not based on his circumstances, but on his relationship with God.
In our own lives, walking by faith in suffering might look like:
- Praying Honestly: Sharing your pain and doubts with God, while still trusting His love and faithfulness.
- Seeking Support: Reaching out to other believers for encouragement and prayer.
- Choosing Gratitude: Finding reasons to give thanks, even in difficult circumstances.
Walking by Faith in a Culture of Skepticism
Our world often values what can be seen, measured, and proven. Faith is sometimes mocked or dismissed as irrational or naive. In this environment, walking by faith requires courage and conviction.
Daniel’s story in Babylon illustrates this well. Surrounded by a culture that did not share his beliefs, Daniel remained faithful to God, even when it put him at risk (Daniel 6). His faith was not private; it was public and visible, even in the face of opposition.
Today, walking by faith in a skeptical culture might mean:
- Standing Up for Truth: Speaking up for biblical values in conversations at work or school, even if it’s unpopular.
- Living with Integrity: Reflecting God’s character in your actions and decisions, even when no one is watching.
- Sharing the Hope of Christ: Talking about your faith with others, trusting that God will use your words and actions to draw people to Himself.
Practical Steps for Walking by Faith
Here are some practical ways to walk by faith in your daily life:
- Start the Day with Prayer: Ask God to guide your thoughts, words, and actions.
- Look for Opportunities to Serve: Seek ways to bless others, even in small ways.
- Choose Honesty and Kindness: Be truthful and compassionate in your interactions.
- Respond to Challenges with Trust: Believe that God is at work, even when you can’t see it.
Walking by Faith and the Eternal Perspective
Walking by faith means keeping our eyes fixed on eternity. Paul writes, “We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18). This perspective transforms how we view our trials, our relationships, and our purpose.
When we live with an eternal perspective, we are able to:
- Endure Hardship with Hope: Knowing that our sufferings are temporary and that God is preparing an eternal reward for us.
- Invest in Relationships: Sharing the love and truth of Christ with others.
- Live with Purpose: Using our time, talents, and resources to serve God’s kingdom.
Conclusion: The Reward of Walking by Faith
Walking by faith is not always easy, but it is always rewarding. God honors those who trust Him, giving us peace in the midst of uncertainty, strength in times of weakness, and hope when circumstances seem bleak. Most importantly, He promises an eternal reward for those who seek Him with all their hearts.
As you seek to walk by faith, remember that God is faithful. He sees your struggles, hears your prayers, and honors your trust.
Let us fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen—for what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. And let us live each day with the confidence and joy that comes from walking by faith, not by sight.