Faith is Confidence
“Faith is confidence”—three words that dismantle our modern misconceptions about belief. In an age where faith is often reduced to wishful thinking or blind optimism, Hebrews 11:1 presents a radically different definition.
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1, NIV)
This verse serves as the foundation for the great “Hall of Faith” that follows, showing us that biblical faith isn’t passive assumption but active conviction. Let’s explore what this means for our daily walk with God.
The Substance of Faith
The Greek word translated as “confidence” (hypostasis) literally means:
- A title deed (legal guarantee)
- A foundation (solid base)
- Essential nature (core reality)
This means faith isn’t:
1. A hopeful guess
2. Emotional optimism
3. Religious tradition
But rather:
1. A spiritual certainty
2. Based on God’s character
3. Confirmed by His promises
Just as Abraham acted on God’s promise before seeing Isaac (Hebrews 11:8-12), our faith stands on the reliability of the Promise-Giver rather than our fluctuating circumstances.
The Evidence of Things Unseen
The second half of the verse describes faith as “assurance about what we do not see.” The Greek word (elenchos) implies:
- Conviction from evidence
- Proof that stands in court
- Demonstrable reality
This “unseen” realm includes:
- Future promises (eternal life, resurrection)
- Present realities (God’s presence, spiritual warfare)
- Past truths (creation, Christ’s sacrifice)
Like the wind we feel but can’t see (John 3:8), faith perceives spiritual realities that physical senses miss. This explains how martyrs could face death with joy—they saw beyond temporal suffering to eternal reward (Hebrews 11:35-38).
Living with Biblical Faith Today
How does this translate to 21st century living?
- Decision-Making
- Choose based on God’s Word over visible circumstances (2 Corinthians 5:7)
- Prayer
- Approach God with bold assurance (Hebrews 4:16)
- Trials
- View difficulties through eternity’s lens (Romans 8:18)
- Daily Walk
- Act on spiritual truths before seeing results (James 2:17)
The chapter’s examples show faith isn’t about getting what we want, but trusting God’s character regardless of outcomes. Sometimes faith receives miracles (Hebrews 11:29), other times it endures suffering (Hebrews 11:36)—but it always honors God.
Reflection Questions
- What area of your life requires “title deed faith” right now?
- How have you experienced faith as “evidence of things unseen”?
- Which hero of faith in Hebrews 11 most inspires you, and why?
Prayer
Father of Faith,
Thank You for making spiritual realities more certain than what I see.
Forgive me for doubting when circumstances contradict Your promises.
Anchor my soul in the hypostasis of faith—
That unshakable confidence in Your character.
Help me live today as if Your Word is truer
Than my feelings, my bank account, or the world’s opinions.
May my life join the great cloud of witnesses
Who proved Your faithfulness.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
