Faith means we assume and are convicted that we will become justified (righteous) even though we are not currently seeing that in ourselves. But God sees us that way so we can have peace toward Him.
"Now faith is an assumption of what is being expected, a conviction concerning matters which are not being observed." (Hebrews 11:1)
We do nothing to acquire faith, it is a gift to us by God that allows us to hear and believe the message of truth, the good news of our salvation.
"...we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His willt...it is by grace you are saved, through faith, and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works..." (Ephesians 1:11-2:10)
"...unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I WILL NOT believe...Eight days later...Jesus came and stood among them...Jesus said to Thomas...stop doubting and believe. Thomas replied, My Lord and my God." (John 20:25-28)
The majority of people are like Thomas, they must SEE to believe. It is not their fault, that is just God's plan for them. Nevertheless...
"...in Christ all will be made alive...the last enemy to be abolished is death...so that God may be All in all." (1 Corinthians 15:20-28)
"...we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His willt...it is by grace you are saved, through faith, and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works..." (Ephesians 1:11-2:10)
"...unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I WILL NOT believe...Eight days later...Jesus came and stood among them...Jesus said to Thomas...stop doubting and believe. Thomas replied, My Lord and my God." (John 20:25-28)
The majority of people are like Thomas, they must SEE to believe. It is not their fault, that is just God's plan for them. Nevertheless...
"...in Christ all will be made alive...the last enemy to be abolished is death...so that God may be All in all." (1 Corinthians 15:20-28)