Now

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
—Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)

The word “now” is small, but it holds the weight of urgency and immediacy. In Hebrews 11:1, it doesn’t merely introduce a definition—it sets the tone for a lifestyle.

Let’s pause and consider two powerful meanings of the word “now” in this verse.

First, “now” in light of Hebrews 10. In the closing verses of chapter 10, we read:

“Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward… But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.” (Hebrews 10:35, 39)

This sets the stage. The author urges believers to hold fast, to remain steadfast in trial, to keep their confidence, and to live by faith, not by fear. So “now faith is” follows as a declaration to those who are tempted to give up: Don’t draw back. Step forward. Right now—faith must rise.

Second, consider “now” as the tense where faith must operate.

Faith doesn’t live in the past, wrapped in memories of what God once did.

Faith doesn’t dwell in the future, waiting for the right moment or perfect conditions.
Faith lives in the now.

Now faith is—not will be, not once was. Faith must work in the present. It responds today, moves today, believes today. Faith is not a theory we rehearse but a power we release in the moment we need it most.

We may not see the full picture. The evidence may not be visible. The things we hope for may feel distant. But faith assures us—they are real. Faith becomes the substance—the solid ground—when everything else is shifting. It is the evidence—a spiritual conviction—when our natural senses fail us.

What do you need now faith for today? Not tomorrow’s worries, not yesterday’s regrets—today’s trial, today’s decision, today’s mountain.

Maybe God is calling you to trust Him in uncertainty, to obey without a sign, to move when it feels risky. That’s where faith shines.

You don’t need to feel strong—you need to believe God is.

You don’t need to understand—you need to trust.

You don’t need the answer—you need the assurance.

Let’s pray-

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of faith. Help me not to live in the shadows of the past or the worries of tomorrow, but to activate my faith right now. Teach me to trust in what I cannot see, and to walk boldly on the foundation of Your Word. Give me strength not to draw back, but to press forward, believing that You are faithful. Let my “now faith” be my anchor in this present moment. In Jesus’ name, Amen.