Faith, a central tenet of Christian doctrine, is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). It is the means by which believers are justified and reconciled to God, as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9: "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Faith is not merely intellectual assent but involves trust and reliance on God and His promises.

The Bible presents numerous examples of faith, notably in Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Faith Hall of Fame." Figures such as Abraham, who "believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness" (Romans 4:3), exemplify the profound trust in God's promises despite circumstances. Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22) demonstrates faith in action, trusting God's provision and promise.

Faith is also depicted as a shield in the spiritual armor of God (Ephesians 6:16), protecting believers from the fiery darts of the evil one. It is through faith that believers overcome the world (1 John 5:4), and it is essential for pleasing God, as "without faith it is impossible to please Him" (Hebrews 11:6).

Jesus frequently emphasized faith during His earthly ministry. He commended the centurion's faith, saying, "Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith" (Matthew 8:10). Similarly, He healed the woman with the issue of blood, affirming, "Daughter, your faith has healed you" (Mark 5:34).

Faith is both a gift from God and a response to His revelation. It grows through hearing the Word of Christ (Romans 10:17) and is evidenced by works, as James 2:26 states, "As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."

Approachability

Approachability, in a biblical context, refers to the accessibility of God to His people and the invitation for believers to draw near to Him. The concept is rooted in the character of God, who desires a personal relationship with His creation. Through Jesus Christ, the barrier of sin that separated humanity from God has been removed, allowing believers to approach God with confidence.

Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers, "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This verse highlights the open invitation to come before God, assured of His mercy and grace.

The approachability of God is further demonstrated in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus, God incarnate, was accessible to all, from the marginalized to the influential. He welcomed children (Mark 10:14), dined with sinners (Luke 19:5-7), and engaged with those considered outcasts, such as the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:7-26).

The parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) illustrates God's approachable nature. The father in the parable represents God, who eagerly awaits and welcomes the return of the repentant sinner with open arms, demonstrating His readiness to forgive and restore.

Prayer is a primary means by which believers approach God. Jesus taught His disciples to pray, emphasizing the personal and intimate nature of communication with God (Matthew 6:9-13). The Holy Spirit aids believers in prayer, interceding on their behalf (Romans 8:26-27).

Approachability is also reflected in the communal aspect of the Church, where believers are encouraged to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2) and to gather together in worship and fellowship (Hebrews 10:25). This community reflects the approachable nature of God, as believers are called to be His hands and feet in the world, extending His love and grace to others.