By Bro Fritz
*Faith = Substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).
*Belief = An acceptance that something exists or is true, especially one without proof (Oxford dictionary).
It’s my prayer that the reader of this will search their thoughts and come to their own conclusion as to which is stronger. I also want to clarify that this is my view of the two; I have no claim of being the authority.
As a Christian I am asked why I believe in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, when I can’t see, touch, or hear them. Like many of my fellow Christians, the reply will sound something similar to this… “Do you believe in Oxygen” or “Do you believe in Gravity”; neither one of these are able to be seen, touched, or heard. But Oxygen is a requirement of life that can’t be excused or eliminated; you can’t simply say you don’t believe in it and continue to use it. As well, Gravity is ever present and cannot be done away with (unless you leave Earth).
My faith in Christ the Son of the Living God has been strengthened through my life’s journey. I have faced many obstacles that my own ability couldn’t have possibly achieved the outcome that I experienced. Now don’t get me wrong, I took credit for some of them before I came into the knowledge of how the benefit of being a child of God works. Faith requires work (James 2: 14 & 22, Luke 6:46, II Peter 1: 10). I believed that I had the knowledge to accomplish what I wanted to do, it was my faith that assured me, if it was for me, my God would provide.
Let me give a few illustrations to compare the two; a skydiver must have belief or faith in the parachute before exiting the plane, a deep sea diver must have belief or faith in the S.U.B.A. gear before entering the water. Could the cliff climber leave the safety of the flat ground if there wasn’t belief or faith in the ropes and hooks that were needed? Although each of my examples shows that either can be used; we all have heard the tragic news of failed parachutes, air tanks, and misplaced hooks. But it is the Faith in Christ and the belief that God will never leave you nor forsake you if you do your best to stay in the Will.
I thank you for your time and interest and may God continue to provide his Grace and Mercy.