What Must We Believe?

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.  

Hebrews 11:6 

What must we believe? According to the writer of Hebrews there are two foundational elements to our faith. The first is that God is. This is critical to faith. If we believe God is, then we believe what He has revealed of Himself in the creation. ‘The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.’ It also involves our belief in His revelation of Himself in His word. ‘All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.’ From that inspired word we learn ‘that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.’  This is the second element of faith the writer cites. Faith is confident in the character of God and how He evidences His character in His actions toward those ‘who diligently seek Him.’ Regardless of anything else we may understand about God and His dealings with us, these lie at the root of the tree of faith. When we believe God is, we believe He is all He tells us He is. When we believe He is the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him, it brings us to Christ, Who is the manifestation of God doing good to us in the world. All true understanding of God leads us to Christ.  

Our Wise and Wonderful God,
we rejoice that You have showed us what is good.
We praise You that what You have shown us
leads us to faith in Christ.

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning