Faith

Faith, in the Christian context, is a fundamental aspect of the believer's relationship with God. It is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is not merely intellectual assent but involves trust and reliance on God and His promises. It is through faith that believers are justified and receive salvation, as articulated 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."

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 a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and is essential for pleasing God, as "without faith it is impossible to please God" (Hebrews 11:6). It is through faith that believers live, as "the righteous will live by faith" (Romans 1:17). This faith is not static but dynamic, growing through hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17) and being tested through trials, which produce perseverance (James 1:3).

Dependence

Dependence on God is a natural outflow of faith. It involves recognizing human limitations and the need for divine guidance and strength. Jesus taught His followers to depend on God for their daily needs, as seen in the Lord's Prayer: "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11). This dependence is not passive but involves active trust and obedience to God's will.

The Psalms frequently express a deep dependence on God, portraying Him as a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). David, in particular, exemplifies this dependence, often crying out to God in times of distress and acknowledging God as his shepherd and provider (Psalm 23).

Jesus Himself modeled perfect dependence on the Father, stating, "The Son can do nothing by Himself; He can do only what He sees the Father doing" (John 5:19). This dependence is mirrored in the life of the apostle Paul, who declared, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13).

Dependence on God is also a call to humility, recognizing that "apart from Me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). It involves casting all anxieties on Him because He cares for His people (1 Peter 5:7). This dependence is not a sign of weakness but a source of strength, as God's power is made perfect in human weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

In summary, faith and dependence are intertwined in the believer's life, with faith being the foundation of a relationship with God and dependence being the expression of trust in His sovereignty and provision.