Connect Hebrews 11:6 with another scripture emphasizing faith's importance in a believer's life. Faith’s Necessity – Hebrews 11:6 “Without faith it is impossible to please God…He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6) • The verse speaks plainly: pleasing God hinges on faith. • Two non-negotiables are spelled out: – Believe that God exists. – Believe He rewards diligent seekers. • Taken at face value, these words show faith as the starting point for every relationship with the Lord. Faith’s Saving Power – Ephesians 2:8-9 “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith…it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8-9) • Salvation is God’s work, yet faith is the channel through which His grace flows. • Works cannot substitute for faith; they follow it. • The same faith that pleases God in Hebrews 11:6 is the faith that receives His saving grace here. Connecting the Two Verses • Hebrews 11:6 shows faith as essential to ongoing fellowship with God. • Ephesians 2:8-9 shows faith as essential to entering that fellowship in the first place. • Together they reveal: 1. Faith initiates our walk with God (salvation). 2. Faith sustains our walk with God (daily pleasing Him). 3. Both initiation and continuation rest on trusting God’s character and promises. Additional Scriptures Reinforcing Faith’s Priority • “Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God.” (Romans 5:1) • “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) • “Faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead.” (James 2:17) • “We walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) Practical Takeaways • Feed faith daily by opening Scripture; it is God’s appointed source (Romans 10:17). • Approach every prayer, decision, and challenge convinced of God’s reality and reward. • Express faith through obedient action; genuine trust produces visible fruit (James 2:17). • Remember: the same faith that saved you is the faith that will keep you pleasing God today. |
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