There can be no denying that faith is essential in God’s plan of salvation. Jesus says, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16). Paul writes, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).

The Hebrews writer identifies the marks of the faith that saves in Hebrews 11:6: “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

Before anything else, we must believe that God exists. This is the very foundation of saving faith. We can be certain of His existence through the evidence of His creation (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20; Hebrews 11:3), as well as through His Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Second, we must believe that God is a rewarder (Hebrews 10:35-39). Peter calls it “an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4), and that the “end of your faith” is “the salvation of your souls” (1 Peter 3:9).

Who does God reward? The Hebrews writer says that “He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” God desires men to seek Him and find Him (Acts 10:26-27). The Savior said that we are to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33).

The logical result of these things—believing in the existence of God, believing in a rewarding God, and seeking Him—is obedience. If we truly believe what He has revealed, we will submit to Him. We will not try to make excuses or find loopholes, but quickly do what is necessary to please Him. We can avoid struggling with submission and obedience by spending more time in His Word, further developing and strengthening our faith.