By definition, to have faith is to have complete trust or confidence in someone or something without proof.

However, when we are talking about faith in God what does that truly mean?

For some it means that “something out there exists.”  While for others, it means believing in God, His word, and having a personal relationship with God without tangible proof.

Having faith in God, in His goodness in the world and our lives is very easy when things are going well. Just like our human relationships, when things are good, the relationship is good. However, is extremely challenging when we are in the thick of pain and hardship.

Ironically, this is when our faith is stretched and made stronger. For when we hold steadfast to our faith in God taking care of us during the storms of life, once the storm subsides, we are left with not only “proof” that He is real and how good He is but also that our relationship with God becoming stronger.

In other words, true faith is not a human emotion that we can turn on and off depending on our circumstances. Rather it is a solid decision to choose to believe that God is with us, for us, loves us, caring for us, providing for us and has a great plan for our lives. This decision is based on knowing that no matter how bad the challenge is God is right there holding onto us and loving us each step of the way; that He will make beauty from a bad situation if only we allow Him by our faith.

If we lose our faith that He will get us through a difficult time and do not declare that He will bring beauty from it, we block His ability to do so because of our free will.

You see, bold faith begets bold rewards.

When we choose to boldly believe no matter how hard our life is in the moment; we allow God to boldly show up for us!

Isaiah 41:10 NIV

10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

 Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 

6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”