Article March 12, 1984 Issue

Faith is the substance we need

WALTER CARTER BUTLER

A message comes through loud and clear when we begin to study the Bible instead of just reading it. We learn that spiritually-minded men and women throughout the ages have turned to God with childlike faith and been saved from all manner of evil, disease, plagues, and lack.

The author of Hebrews devotes the eleventh chapter to the record of faith in the history of his people, and enumerates some of the wonderful instances of God's care experienced by those who trusted Him. The chapter starts with the verse "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."^{Heb. 11:1.} Mrs. Eddy opens the chapter "Prayer" in Science and Health with this sentence: "The prayer that reforms the sinner and heals the sick is an absolute faith that all things are possible to God,—a spiritual understanding of Him, an unselfed love."^{Science and Health, p. 1.}

Many individuals today, out of work, out of money, and in danger of being homeless, may see little relevance between religion and the practical solution of their problems. Government and social agencies may give temporary help. But turning to God with an understanding faith in His power is the only sure and permanent solution to human woes. Again Hebrews tells us, "He that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."^{Heb. 11:6.}

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