Faith

1. Definition:
1. 1828: In theology, the assent of the mind or understanding to the truth of what God has revealed. Simple belief of the scriptures, of the being and perfections of God, and of the existence, character and doctrines of Christ, founded on the testimony of the sacred writers, is called historical or speculative faith; a faith little distinguished from the belief of the existence and achievements of Alexander or of Cesar.
1. Understanding (mastery)
2. Truth (faithfulness)
3. Belief (principle)
1. Faith is gaining a mastery of true principles, generally found in the scriptures or gospel of a religion. It something one does, not something one has. Faith is the process while testimony is the result.
2. Quotes:
1. “To have faith in God is not knowing that God exists or knowing that he will act, rather it is that the one with emunah (faith) will act with firmness toward God's will.” (Jeff A Benner)
1. Faith is doing. Doing something because of a belief you have. To have real faith in Christ you must do as He would have you do.
2. “And so it is with our eternal journey. We take one step at a time. In doing so we reach toward the unknown, but faith lights the way. If we will cultivate that faith, we shall never walk in darkness.” (Gordon B. Hinkley)
1. Faith is a guiding force. If you are using your faith, you are allowing God to direct you. Anything you do by faith is allowing God to direct you and to lead you.
3. Scriptures:
1. “Wherefore, there must be faith; and if there must be faith there must also be hope; and if there must be hope there must also be charity.” (Moroni 10:20)
1. Faith is essential, but it is important to remember that it is an action based on hope. Hope is confidence in God and His promises. Hope comes from Charity, which is honest love of others. If one seeks to have faith, one must first have charity.
2. “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.” (James 2:17-18)
1. Again, faith is action. One cannot have faith because it is more like a verb than a noun. to really have faith, you must be actively serving and being a good person. It is the application of charity.
4. Personal Definition:

To have faith is to do. To do things which your Father asks. It is a mastery of true principles. It is a force that can guide and direct you. Faith is acting of hope, which comes from charity. Faith is the direct application of the pure love of Christ.