“Faith is the effect of God illuminating the mind and sealing the heart, and it is His mere gift.” ~ James Arminius
James Arminius was a theologian who taught and preached during the Reformation on the interplay between grace and free will. He was instrumental in the development of “Methodism” in England and the United States. He was a Dutch Reformed theologian at the University of Leiden from 1603 to 1609.. James showed the world that he was a man of faith.
The “with God” life is a life of faith.
I share the quote by James Arminius to prompt us to think: even our faith is a gift from God. It is not something tangible or something we can conjure up. It is simply leaning into trust and believing in God. Like sight, we can not be far from Christ and stay faithful. Look inside your soul? Do you have faith?
It resides next to the indwelling Holy Spirit. Faith and the Spirit walk hand-in-hand.
For we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Cor 5:7 ESV.
Examine Your Journey With God
Sacred Scripture reminds us to trust in God the Father to guide our lives. Rather than relying on what we see or feel in a moment.
How do we know we’re walking in faith?
1. Do you trust God despite uncertainty?
We walk by faith when we absolutely rely on God’s promises. We may not have all the answers, and that’s okay. Faith says I trust not in what I see but in what God has said. Do you believe God’s word and move forward with no need to know the outcome? If so then you’re walking by faith, not by sight. There will be uncertainty; it’s a given. Just move forward with no need to see the outcome first. Walk believing God’s got this.
2. Obeying God’s Commands
Faithfulness is shown by obedience. The word is clear: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22). Are you trying to follow God’s teachings in your daily life? Consistent obedience is a hallmark of faith.
3. Praying Regularly and Honestly
Those who walk by faith maintain an active prayer life. It is like food to the body. We seek God’s guidance and share our hearts with Him. Prayer reveals our dependence on God. But even more, it demonstrates the tremendous value we place on our fellowship and communion with Him. Praying regularly is crucial. It signifies the believer’s reliance on God rather than self-dependence.
4. Surrendering Control
Our ability to surrender to God completely measures our faith. Faith relinquishes all right to self. And if you’re able to surrender whatever happens to Him, you’re displaying faith.
5. Living With Hope, Not Fear
Are you motivated by hope in Christ rather than fear of the unknown? Walking by faith means choosing hope and courage, even when circumstances look bleak.
Faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen. Heb 11:1 ESV
6. Persevering Through Trials
Trials, like most problems, come and go, but Christ will remain faithful. Sometimes we turn to God for help when our foundations are shaking. Then we find out that it is God doing the shaking. Why? Hardship tests faith. If you remain steadfast in your devotion to God during tough times—choosing to trust His goodness—you’re walking by faith.
7. Seeking God’s Will Above Your Own
The faithful know God intimately, and in this knowledge, we trust His goodness, tender loving care, and faithfulness. Those who walk by faith are more concerned with God’s desires than their personal ambitions. Are you willing to follow where He leads, even if it’s not what you would have chosen? “
Give God your will, and He gives you His power! ~ Author unknown
8. Making Decisions Based on Scripture
Two words determine your destiny: yes and no. Will you say yes to Scripture or no? The decision we all face is this: whether or not to trust God’s word consciously. Saying yes will change your lives forever. You open the door of your heart. You invite the Spirit to teach, guide, correct, help, and so much more. Faithful Christians let the Bible guide their choices. If you consult God’s Word in your decision-making process, you’re walking by faith.
9. Sharing Your Faith With Others
Walking by faith involves being a witness. Sometimes it’s a silent witness, and at other times it’s not. Are you willing to share your beliefs, even if it’s uncomfortable? Boldness in living with God and sharing Christ shows trust in Him.
10. Experiencing Spiritual Growth
Honestly, Faith leads to transformation. If you notice that your relationship with the Lord has deepened over time, then you’re living a faithful life. You’ve cultivated a loving relationship with Him. If you notice growth in love, patience, and humility, it shows you’re walking by faith. These qualities indicate you are remaining faithful to the Lord.
Conclusion
Knowing whether we’re walking by faith is essential. Walking by faith isn’t about being perfect—it’s about continuously trusting, obeying, and relying on God.
Use this list to reflect on your spiritual journey.
Ask God to help you grow in faithfulness day by day. Remember, even when you stumble, His grace is sufficient, and He is always calling you closer to Himself.
“Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:8 ESV.
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