Chair Faith: Why We Trust What We Can't See

Faith is the cornerstone of Christian life, yet its implications extend far beyond religious practice into our everyday experiences. As Pastor Hezron Marwa eloquently explains in his recent message, faith manifests in the simplest of actions – like sitting in a chair with complete trust it will hold your weight. This mundane example beautifully illustrates the biblical definition found in Hebrews 11:1, describing faith as "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Faith operates as our spiritual certainty in the unseen, forming the foundation of our relationship with God.

The importance of faith cannot be overstated, as Scripture plainly declares in Hebrews 11:6 that "without faith, it is impossible to please God." This profound statement reveals why faith stands as non-negotiable in our spiritual journey. Faith is not merely a theological concept but the essential component that activates our connection with the divine. It serves as the spiritual currency through which we engage with God's promises and provisions. When we exercise faith, we acknowledge God's sovereignty and express our trust in His character, which deeply pleases Him. This pleasing aspect of faith highlights its relational dimension – faith is not just belief in abstract principles but personal trust in a loving God.

Jesus himself paid close attention to faith levels in those he encountered. The Gospel of Matthew records two contrasting examples: a Gentile woman whose great faith secured healing for her daughter despite cultural barriers, and Peter, whose momentary doubt caused him to sink while walking on water. These accounts reveal that Jesus notices and responds to our faith quality. The Gentile woman demonstrated persistent, unshakable faith that wouldn't accept rejection, while Peter's experience teaches us to keep our focus firmly on Jesus rather than surrounding circumstances. These biblical examples provide practical lessons about maintaining strong faith amid life's challenges and distractions.

Faith possesses transformative power – it literally moves God to action. When the paralyzed man's friends lowered him through a roof to reach Jesus, Scripture specifically notes that Jesus saw "their faith" and responded with healing. This remarkable account demonstrates how faith can benefit not just ourselves but others in our circle. Similarly, James 1:5-7 teaches that when we ask God for wisdom or other needs, we must "ask in faith, without doubting" to receive what we request. Faith removes the barriers between our petitions and God's response, creating a pathway for divine intervention in seemingly impossible situations. This understanding revolutionizes our prayer life and expectations.

In a fallen world filled with trials and hardships, faith functions as our spiritual immune system. James 1:3 reveals that the testing of our faith produces perseverance, indicating that challenges actually strengthen rather than weaken genuine faith. Faith acts as a protective shield against the enemy's schemes and sustains us through periods of suffering or uncertainty. When we stand firm in faith during trials, God receives glory, and our faith becomes "more precious than gold" as described in 1 Peter 1:7. This perspective transforms our view of difficulties, helping us see them as opportunities for spiritual refinement rather than mere obstacles to overcome.

Finally, authentic faith manifests in tangible actions. James 2:26 states plainly that "faith without works is dead," emphasizing that true belief inevitably produces corresponding behavior. Our faith becomes visible through our choices, priorities, and treatment of others. Just as a body without spirit is lifeless, faith without practical expression remains hollow and ineffective. This principle challenges superficial or merely intellectual faith, calling believers to demonstrate their convictions through consistent, faithful living. As Pastor Marwa emphasizes, faith and works function as inseparable partners – each needing the other for complete expression of genuine Christian discipleship.