The Power of Faith: How to Please God According to Hebrews 11:6
Context of Hebrews 11:6
Hebrews 11 is often referred to as the "faith chapter" of the Bible. It highlights the importance of faith in the lives of those who follow God, recounting examples of men and women who demonstrated great faith throughout biblical history. Hebrews 11:6, in particular, emphasizes that faith is not just a good thing to have, but it is essential.
“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
Without faith, we cannot please God. The verse also stresses the importance of believing in God's existence and trusting that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. This is a call to a deep and genuine faith that goes beyond mere belief to actively pursuing a relationship with God.
The Necessity of Faith in Pleasing God
Believing in God’s Existence
Faith begins with the belief that God exists. This foundational truth is the first step in a relationship with God. It’s not enough to simply acknowledge that there might be a higher power; we must believe in the God of the Bible, who is revealed as Creator, Sustainer and Redeemer.
Trusting in God’s Goodness
Beyond believing that God exists, Hebrews 11:6 calls us to trust that He is good and rewards those who seek Him. This means having confidence in God's character, knowing that He is just, merciful and loving. Trust in His promises is a critical aspect of the faith that pleases God.
Seeking God Diligently
The verse highlights the importance of diligently seeking God. This implies a continuous, earnest effort to know God more intimately through prayer, studying the Bible and living according to His will. It’s not a passive belief but an active pursuit of God’s presence and guidance in our lives.
Faith as a Foundation for Action
Faith is not just an internal belief; it must be evident in our actions. Hebrews 11 is full of examples of people who acted on their faith—building an ark, leaving their homeland and even being willing to sacrifice what was most precious to them. Their actions were motivated by their trust in God’s promises.
Pleasing God Through Faith
Ultimately, this verse teaches us that the only way to truly please God is through faith. No amount of good deeds or moral living can replace the need for faith. God desires a relationship with us that is built on trust and reliance on Him. Without faith, it’s impossible to enter into this kind of relationship with God.
5 Ways to Please God
1. Believe in God’s Existence
First and foremost, profess your belief in the existence of the one true God. Let this belief be the foundation of your faith, influencing your thoughts, actions and decisions.
2. Trust in God’s Promises
Regularly remind yourself of God’s promises as found in the Bible. When facing challenges or uncertainty, trust that God is faithful and will fulfill His word in His perfect timing.
3. Seek God with Persistence
Make it a daily habit to seek God earnestly. Spend time in prayer, study the Scriptures and listen for God’s voice in your life. This diligent pursuit will strengthen your relationship with Him and align your life with His will.
4. Let Faith Guide Your Actions
Allow your faith to inspire action. Whether it’s stepping out in obedience to God’s call, serving others or standing firm in your convictions, let your faith be evident through your deeds.
5. Live to Please God
Focus on living a life that pleases God by putting your faith in Him above all else. This means making decisions that honor Him, avoiding actions that go against His teachings and continually seeking to grow in your relationship with Him.
Hebrews 11:6 reminds us of the crucial role faith plays in our relationship with God. By believing in His existence, trusting in His promises, diligently seeking Him and letting faith guide our actions, we can live a life that pleases God and brings us closer to His presence.