That’s right, faith is a process.  We know from Scripture that “faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word (rhema) of God”  (Romans 10:17), and that “faith without works is dead” (James 2:26).  Something must happen with faith, after it is heard, for it to not be dead.  For you visual thinkers, imagine the word of God planting a seed of faith that comes to life in the related works.  Sounds like a process to me; but, why is that so important? 

Well, processes generally take time – a challenge for the Western, “in the moment”, “get it done now”, instant gratification mindset.  Processes require decisions, and create actions and reactions.  Our hurried minds tend to overlook, undervalue or subjugate these most important decisions to our emotions (i.e., our carnal flesh) and/or other beings (i.e., Satan).  Is it no wonder our faith is so weak?  It never has a chance to germinate, much less grow into something strong and powerful.

By the way, there are at least a couple of very important steps in the middle of faith planting and living faith.  Henry Blackaby calls them “the crisis of belief” – the battle in the mind that determines if we will trust and obey, or suffer with the unbelief that tends to lead to doubt, disobedience, discouragement, and despair.  It’s a battle that goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden.  Can we trust Him?  Do we trust Him?

So, what will you do with this new (or renewed) knowledge?  How will you respond when the faith to do a mighty and unusual thing comes riding in on a rhema word from the LORD Most High?  Will you be like those in Nazareth that did not experience many miracles because they could not see beyond the carpenter’s son label?  My prayer is that you will simply trust Him.  And if you cannot will yourself to trust Him, don’t be surprised.  Did you know…

 “…for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Phil. 2:13)