I think it's fair to define faith as: believing in something without proof.
Why does holding a belief that does not rest on logical proof or material evidence seem a good character trait?
2007-03-22 12:29:46 · 10 answers · asked by Adam L 5 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
It's the ability to make a decision without being spoon fed. Did you decide what to wear on your own this morning, or did you take a poll on what looked best on you? It's extremely rare that we EVER have concrete proof from which to make a decision, so we do the best we can with the incomplete information we have. Logical proof only exists in the hypothetical, when the variables can be controlled. In reality, it's impossible to know how many there are, much less what they all are. Logic also dictates that a lack of proof is not a proof of lack.
So, do you feel that indecisiveness is more virtuous?
2007-03-22 12:49:19 · answer #1 · answered by Beardog 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think you are close to the definition of faith. But, I think you are missing part of the definition. That is believing in something with little to no physical proof.
You see the Bible has so much actual proof of many details that it lends to its credibility. Then there is the heart proof. When reading the Bible or hearing the Word the Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts and we understand the truth and put our faith in it.
Holding on to a belief that does not rest completely in the physical world is fool hardy if it is not backed up by some tangibles. In the Christian world the tangibles come in the way of a clean heart. Some times there is a circumstance that can only be described as a miracle. Also, when living the way Jesus instructs we do live a better life and have a better grasp on life than our un-saved counter parts.
2007-03-22 20:03:20 · answer #2 · answered by crimthann69 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Lack of "proof" is not the same thing as lack of "evidence." Evidence of God exists throughout all of creation. I have read the Bible, studied it, and tested it and have found it to be true and reliable, which is additional evidence of God's existence and authority.
Have you ever believed that someone loved you? Did you base that belief on "proof" or on "evidence"?
God asks us to examine the evidence and make a choice--to step out in faith. Once we do, he confirms the truth to us in a way that those who never take that step can ever possibly relate to or understand.
Some day all will see the absolute proof of God's existence and authority. There will be no doubt. "Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord." But seeing God in person and being confronted by his glory will not demand faith, and "without faith it is impossible to please God." People will believe because they will have no choice but to believe, but just as "the demons believe and shudder" that belief based on absolute proof will not save them.
Blessings.
2007-03-22 20:05:06 · answer #3 · answered by happygirl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are Seven Virtues:
Faith is belief in the right things (including the virtues!). "The right things" is the key!
Hope is taking a positive future view, that good will prevail.
Charity is concern for, and active helping of, others.
Fortitude is never giving up.
Justice is being fair and equitable with others.
Prudence is care of and moderation with money.
Temperance is moderation of needed things and abstinence from things which are not needed.
All these things, lived by faith, makes for a very smooth-running life.
2007-03-22 19:37:25 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
Because when you plant a tree from a little seed it sure don't look like a tree, you have to have faith it will someday be a tree, you do not see the tree right away. You only have the seed of God not him to look at faith in God is the same as that seed it will grow until you see God one day if you have enough faith. It is a Virtue because to have that kind of faith you follow his commandments to the best of your knowledge and ability.
2007-03-22 19:43:50 · answer #5 · answered by saintrose 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You are confusing "faith" with the word "superstition" again aren't you. Well they are not the same word, and do not have the same meanings.
Faith is something of high moral worth, it has great value. It is the evidence of things not seen, the evidence for love for example. Faith is identical to fidelity in a relationship.
2007-03-22 19:40:28 · answer #6 · answered by Shawn D 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Because otherwise the whole religion gig would fall apart. And religions are extremely profitable for those in charge, not to mention a good way to control the masses.
2007-03-22 19:37:08 · answer #7 · answered by Mom 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I thought patience was a virtue, and ignorance is bliss.
2007-03-22 19:42:07 · answer #8 · answered by ? 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not on your logic maybe! but on devine logic YES!
2007-03-22 19:37:16 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
it takes courage to have faith...
2007-03-22 19:41:11 · answer #10 · answered by aa.gabriel 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋