We live all of our lives by faith, whether we realize it or not. We have faith that a light will come on when we flip the switch. We have faith that our friends and spouses will be faithful to their relationships. Managers have faith that players will perform as they hope. Players have faith that everyone  on the team will perform. The Bible describes faith as “the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen” (Heb 11:1).

Faith is belief that someone or something will act or perform as claimed. We would be foolish to lay down our lives for anything or anyone that we could not trust absolutely, but God has proven Himself trustworthy throughout the ages. We don’t physically see God, which is why faith is necessary to trust him. Jesus’ words to Thomas after His resurrection make this truth very clear: “Because you have seen Me, you have believed. Those who believe without seeing are blessed” (Jn 20:29).

Coaches want people to trust our decisions and our character, and it certainly pleases us when our players and others under our leadership decide to trust us to guide them. God wants the same thing from us in all matters of life, and how much more should we trust God than anyone or anything on this earth? The men and women of Hebrews 11 set examples of great faith that pleased God. From them we learn that our faith can influence others long after we are gone.

The Bible teaches that God always rewards faith, and, in fact, without faith it is impossible to please Him. Have you trusted God for salvation and entered into a relationship with Him through his Son Jesus Christ? If not, why not do so now? Confess your sins and invite Christ into your heart (Rm 10:9–10).