p. 16 | WHAT IS FAITH? by T.

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Aug 9, 1899

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 25, No. 32.

WHAT IS FAITH?

By T.

FAITH is the simple and literal acceptance of God's Word. That is all there is to it, and yet it is all of that.

Faith is not some mere sentiment. Faith is not our feelings. Faith is something much more substantial than either sentiment or feeling. Faith is the mighty pillar that rests securely upon God's Word and sustains the Christian in every trial and every effort.

Faith is a contract between us and God. For whatever God may say, faith has already contracted to affirm that it is true. We say that God can not make mistakes. And it is by faith that we can always affirm that whatever the Lord reveals to us we have contracted to believe it.

Faith keeps us from contracting to do good works in our own strength. For the Master plainly tells us, "Without Me ye can do nothing." John 15:5. And, having learned this lesson, the same faith enables us to say with assurance: "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Phil. 4:13.

Great is the simplicity of faith! And equally great are the divine possibilities that it offers to each one. Our God is no respecter of persons, and every one who takes the key of faith may unlock all of the infinite treasures of heavenly righteousness, and power, and wisdom, and usefulness. We may ascend to the exalted heights of faithful Abraham. T.