Now without faith it is impossible to please God. For the one who comes to God must believe that He exists and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. Hebrews 11:6, TLV

Seems simple. Obvious. Our faith begins with believing God exists. I mean, that’s logical, right, if we don’t believe He exists, then how can we have faith? How about seekers? Those who approach God in prayer hoping that He will give them something–or prove His existence?

There’s enough evidence of God rewarding seekers by showing Himself through miracles, or a peace and “knowing” that He is real to know He does.

But sometimes, people who seek to make a deal with God don’t always receive satisfactory results. At least not initially.

The wonder of this faith chapter is how faith is analyzed in the history of the patriarchs. Back then, a Jewish person who read this chapter would know the story of each “hero of faith.” Their imperfect, but stalwart trusting in the Creator of the Universe. That’s why remembering is part of the culture of Judaism. Zachor–remember. Because, when we remember we have the opportunity to learn and gain deeper understanding. In this case, faith.

By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen did not come from anything visible. Hebrews 11:3, TLV [Emphasis Mine]

Faith produces something else. Understanding. How many times have we questioned why something happened? The answer to the question of “why?” is faith. As much as we want to understand the particulars, God wants us to trust Him and His decisions.

That’s difficult when we’re hurt or confused, isn’t it? That’s why the practice of Zachor is so important. Taking the time to remember how God has worked through the centuries, reminds us that He is all-powerful, even when it looks like He isn’t. We have faith to understand that we trust Him.

So, let’s remember. Remember what God has done through history, and what God has done for us. That’s the next step in faith.