Introduction: A Call to Trust the Unseen

To “walk by faith, not by sight” is a phrase many Christians know, but not everyone understands what it truly means. It’s a call to trust in God’s promises, even when they aren’t visible or logical by human standards.

“For we live by faith, not by sight.” — 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)

This verse is not about blind belief; it’s about confidence in the unseen God who is always faithful. Let’s explore what walking by faith looks like in Scripture and in real life.

1. What Does It Mean to Walk by Faith?

To walk by faith means to live each day trusting in what God says—even when your circumstances or feelings tell a different story. It’s choosing to believe God’s Word over your own understanding.

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” — Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Faith is not based on what we can touch, see, or predict. It is rooted in God’s character, His Word, and His promises.

2. Biblical Examples of Walking by Faith

Abraham – Trusting the Promise

God told Abraham to leave his homeland and go to a place he had never seen—and promised to make him a great nation.

“By faith Abraham... obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.” — Hebrews 11:8 (NIV)

Abraham didn’t have all the answers. He had God’s word—and that was enough.

Noah – Building in the Face of Doubt

Noah built the ark even though there was no rain and people mocked him. He trusted God’s warning and was saved.

“By faith Noah... built an ark to save his family.” — Hebrews 11:7 (NIV)

Peter – Stepping Onto the Water

Peter literally walked by faith when Jesus called him to step out of the boat and walk on water.

“Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” — Matthew 14:29 (NIV)

When Peter looked at the waves (sight), he sank. But when he focused on Jesus (faith), he stood on the impossible.

3. Real-Life Ways to Walk by Faith

1. Trusting God When the Future Is Unclear

You may not know what job you’ll get, who you’ll marry, or where life is headed—but God does. Walking by faith means believing He’s already gone before you.

2. Obeying Even When It Doesn’t Make Sense

Has God ever called you to give, serve, or move before it was convenient? Obedience before understanding is a key part of faith.

3. Believing God’s Word Over Your Emotions

Your feelings change—but God’s truth doesn’t. Faith is choosing to believe what God says about you and your situation, even when your heart doubts.

4. Praying Before You See Results

Prayer is an act of faith. Keep praying, even if you don’t yet see change. God is working behind the scenes.

4. Faith Is Not the Absence of Fear

Walking by faith doesn’t mean you’ll never feel afraid. It means you choose to move forward despite the fear, trusting God with the outcome.

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” — Psalm 56:3 (NIV)