How can I increase my faith?
Faith is an integral part of the Christian walk. The Bible has a lot to say about growing in faith and trusting God more fully. Here are 9000 words on how to increase faith according to the Bible.
To start, it’s important to understand what biblical faith is. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Simply put, faith is trusting in God even when we cannot physically see the outcome. It’s living with confidence in God’s promises despite our circumstances.
Growing our faith must begin with the understanding that faith is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9). We cannot manufacture faith on our own. When we put our trust in Christ for salvation, we are given a measure of faith. But we can still increase our faith as we walk with God. The more we choose to trust God, the more our faith muscles are stretched and strengthened.
One key way we can increase faith is by spending regular time in God’s Word. Romans 10:17 explains, “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” As we read and study Scripture, our faith is bolstered. God’s truth renews our minds and reminds us of His faithful promises. We learn more about God’s character and develop greater confidence in Him.
In addition to reading the Bible, memorizing and meditating on key Scripture passages will ingrain God’s truth even more deeply. The Psalms extol the virtues of treasure God’s Word in our hearts (Psalm 119:11). When we meditate on God’s truth, it strengthens our faith and equips us to trust God more.
Prayer is another essential faith-building practice. Jesus’ disciples asked Him to increase their faith in Luke 17:5, to which Jesus responded that faith even the size of a mustard seed could accomplish great things. He then urged them to increase their faith through prayer. Consistently praying and bringing our requests and praises to God demonstrates reliance on Him. Our faith muscles are exercised as we see Him answer prayer and work through every situation. Through prayer, we can have faith that God will provide, heal, change circumstances, and work powerfully.
Increasing faith also involves consistently obeying God even when it feels difficult or uncomfortable. Abraham demonstrated tremendous faith by obeying God’s call to sacrifice his son Isaac, believing God would still fulfill His promises (Genesis 22). His radical obedience grew his faith immensely. As we obey God in big and small ways, we learn to trust Him more completely. Our faith is strengthened through the process of walking in obedience.
Another important element is fellowship with other believers. Spending time with more mature Christians who can encourage our faith is invaluable. Their testimonies remind us of God’s provision and care. The writer of Hebrews instructs us to encourage one another daily so that no one falls away from believing (Hebrews 3:12-13). Surrounding ourselves with faithful believers helps nourish our own faith.
In times of suffering and trials, our faith is also tested and refined. Difficult seasons require us to lean into God like never before. As we walk through challenges while continuing to hope in God’s goodness, our faith is proven genuine and grows stronger (1 Peter 1:6-7, James 1.2-4). Holding onto faith during storms trains us to more fully rely on God.
The Bible also makes it clear that putting our faith into action is critical for growth. We exercise and strengthen our faith muscles by stepping out to serve God and others. James 2:14-26 details how faith is perfected and made complete through works of love. Just as vital to the Christian life as believing is putting that belief into practice. Doing the good deeds God has prepared for us increases our faith exponentially.
Above all, recognizing that it is Christ who is at work within us helps us move forward in faith. Paul explains in Colossians 2:12 that Christians are “raised with [Christ] through faith.” Our faith originates from and rests in Jesus. As we abide in Him, He produces fruit in our lives (John 15:4-5). The more we understand faith is Christ in us, the more our human effort gives way to His power. We can have full confidence that He who began a good work will carry it to completion (Philippians 1:6). From start to finish, faith is a gift of grace, not our own doing.
In summary, here are some key actions the Bible prescribes for growing faith:
– Reading God’s Word regularly
– Memorizing and meditating on Scripture
– Persistent prayer
– Obeying God even when difficult
– Fellowship with other believers
– Persevering through trials and suffering
– Putting faith into action
– Relying on Christ’s power within us
While these practices don’t automatically produce faith, they do create the optimal conditions for our faith to increase. Our role is to steward these habits and gifts by God’s strength.
Ultimately, we can take great comfort that growing our faith does not depend on our own power. The Holy Spirit is constantly working to produce faith within us. As we yield to His leading, He will cultivate faith and bring it to maturity. Even when we feel weak in faith, we can call upon His power.
No matter where we are starting from today, God can increase our faith. By availing ourselves of His Word, His Spirit, His people, and His presence, we position ourselves to keep growing. Our part is to continually entrust ourselves to the One who authors faith. The Lord who saved us will enable us to live by great faith, bearing much fruit for His glory.