To walk by faith is a step by step process. How to follow God is learned day by day, and layer upon layer. God has given us helps. First of course, we have Bible study and prayer. We learn from our experiences. We learn from the examples of those whose lives demonstrate their connection to God. We also learn from the writings and teachings of faithful believers who have gone before us.
Missionary, author and speaker, Elisabeth Elliot has observed, “It’s not always possible to know whether the source of an idea or deed is God or Satan, since God sometimes covers Himself in cloud and Satan is often (disguised as) an angel of light. It is however, always possible to trust the Shepherd who has promised to lead us in paths of righteousness. . . . If it were not for uncertainties, we would have no need to walk by faith.”
We walk by faith, not by sight. Often, things are not what they appear. The easy way that opens before us may not be the best way. The path that seems blocked by obstacles may be exactly the one we are meant to pursue. Advice may seem trustworthy, but upon examination be contrary to what Scripture teaches. The culture around us may encourage us to accept things that don’t seem right, but if the majority thinks they are right, we wonder how we can oppose them. The options can leave us confused. But God has promised to guide us when we seek Him.
To be in tune with God’s leading, we must first of all have a desire to know His will and obey it.
We move forward with what we believe to be the right thing based on what God has revealed in the Scriptures and what we sense in our spirits after prayer. God’s leading will never contradict the Bible. Then as we take steps in the direction we think is right, He will open or close doors appropriately. We can trust that God will make His way clear to us, but not all at once. He gives us enough guidance to take the next step. He blesses obedience. The more committed we are to following Him, the more easily we can discern where He is leading.
Loud voices in the culture may promote things that are unbiblical. Equally loud voices may ridicule what we know to be right. Opposing opinions leave many wondering what is true. Jesus promised that if we hold to His teachings, we will know what is true. It is up to each one of us to decide whether we want to live to please God, or people. God will strengthen us to stand firm in what is right if we seek Him and trust His Word.
Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 NLT
What helps you to walk by faith? Please leave a comment below.
Blessings,
Phyllis
© 2025 Phyllis L. Farringer
Image by Big_Heart from Pixabay
The longer I know Him and have experienced His faithful leading the more my confidence grows in following Him.
Yes, the better we know Him the easier it is to trust Him. Thanks, Sharon.
Many times prayer later leaves me with a sense that God is near. A feeling of peace.
Yes, leaving things in God’s capable hands does give us peace. Thanks, George.
I’m thankful that I can ask for faith and God provides it. That’s the paradox, I have faith that God will do what is in His word, and one of those things is that God gives us the faith.
“For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen.” (Romans11:36) Thanks, Joni.