Do you suppose it is possible to HAVE faith but not LIVE by faith? There is a difference (a big difference) between the mere POSSESSION of faith and the ACTIVE LIFE of faith. We see an example of that in John 12:42-43. “Even among the rulers many believed in Him” – there it is, FAITH! Keep reading: “…but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” Did they HAVE or POSSESS faith? Yes! But, that was it! They chose to believe in their heart but not LIVE it in their life. Jesus said that they had rejected Him and would be judged.
The Old Testament and the New Testament both highlight the importance of faith, but not a faith that is hidden in one’s heart. The prophet Habakkuk affirmed, “The just shall live by his faith” (2:4). That truth is so premier that it was quoted at least three times in the New Testament (Rom. 1:17; Gal. 3:11; Heb. 10:38). Paul said, “I live by faith” (Gal. 2:20). Acceptable and saving faith is living, active and working! What kind of faith do you have?