Walking by faith means we continue to confidently move forward knowing that God is in control, even when we have no idea where the road leads. That full surrender requires trust and obedience to courageously take a next step knowing that God sees all, even when we can’t, and the future is unclear.
That is obedience and faith defined in Hebrews 11:1, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
Walking By Faith vs. Walking By Sight
We may not know what is on the other side of the door that God has asked us to open, but we can still boldly swing the door back and walk through. In his second letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul talks about the difference between walking by faith and walking by sight. While we are on earth and separate from the Lord physically, we walk by faith, trusting that He is guiding us every step of the way.
- “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”–2 Corinthians 5:7
What is the difference between these two ways of living?
Walking by Sight
When we live guided by our limited human senses, we rely on logic and our feelings to move us on the path that we can control. Our human instincts want to see where the road leads. We only consider options that logically fit into our experience. A request, for instance, to lead a small group Bible study would not be considered because that is outside the familiar experience. Walking by sight often results in missing many opportunities as well as many of God’s blessings.
Walking by Faith
Walking by faith, on the other hand, means putting the house up for sale and packing your belongings because God has led you to help plant a church in Montana where you’ve never been. Or maybe it means selling the house simply to downsize because God has led you to live less extravagantly with more generosity.
Walking by faith means praying to God and meaning it: “If you say it, I will do it; where you lead me I will go.” This heart posture can be summarized by Proverbs 3:5-6.
- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” –Proverbs 3:5-6
Faith in Action Is Obedience in Motion
Faith is a gift and it demands obedience. We must continually ask God to not only help us discern his will, but ask him to give us the faith to move, following his direction.
We are reminded in Matthew 6:26-34 to look at the birds of the air and the lilies of the field and be confident in God’s promise to take care of his children. Living with faith and obedience means living generously beyond what may seem logical and serving in areas where we are outside our comfort zone. We can do this because we have faith that God’s promises are real and He will take care of our needs.
- Faith and obedience means living like Abraham in Genesis 12 who left his homeland without knowing where God was leading him, and later in Genesis 22 followed God’s prompting, showing his willingness to offer up his son as a burnt offering.
- Faith and obedience means living each day searching for opportunities to share the love of Jesus, and to confidently share our testimony of how God has changed our lives.
- Faith and obedience means moving forward after disappointments, after loss and after grief. As his children, we know God still has much for us to accomplish. Through faith, expect God to give you ears to hear, eyes to see and wisdom to press ahead with hope and purpose based on God’s promise, not on our circumstances.
The Role of Obedience in Faithful Living
Obedience is the test of trust. Faith without obedience is incomplete and the two cannot be separated. The demonstration of faith means moving to action in full trust, claiming God’s promise, knowing all is well even when it may be uncomfortable.
The life of a faithful servant means walking by faith one step at a time. God’s direction comes step by step, usually not in full clarity. He is a lamp to our feet, not a floodlight for the whole path (Psalms 119:105).
Dependence on God
Obedience flows from trust, not from trying to earn God’s favor. Don’t confuse dependence on God with moral performance—God isn’t measuring us by perfection, but by willingness to follow His leading.
- “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.” – Hebrews 11:6
Living in faithful obedience is not about flawless behavior, but about confidence in our Father’s guidance. “Whatever He says to you, do it.” –John 2:5
How to Trust God When You Can't See What's Ahead
Trusting God with the unknown is scary, but the safest place for you to be is in His hands. Walking by faith requires you to be honest with God about your anxieties and fears. Here are some practical ways to build your trust in God.
- Pray with honesty. Bring your fears and uncertainties to Him.
- Anchor in Scripture and remind yourself of His promises daily.
- Obey in the small steps. Each act of obedience builds greater faith.
- Cultivate patience. God’s timing unfolds differently than ours, but His plan is best.
- Surround yourself with faith-building community. Their encouragement will keep you steady when doubt creeps in.
It’s Time to Walk in Faith
Walking by faith requires surrender, obedience, and faith in God’s unseen plan. When you can’t see the road ahead, God already knows the way. Rest in His faithfulness and step forward in confidence. Examine one area of your life where God might be asking you to trust Him more, and take that first step in faith.
Listen to Abundant Life Worship's song, “By Faith” and begin your walk by faith, not by sight.