2 Corinthians 5:7
(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
2 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV)
Context
Paul wrote this letter to address issues in the Corinthian church and encourage believers. This verse is a parenthetical explanation within a larger argument about confidence and hope. The immediate context (2 Corinthians 5:1-9) discusses the believer’s earthly body as a temporary tent and the longing for the eternal heavenly dwelling. Paul states that while we are “at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:6), and verse 7 explains why: our present existence is characterized by faith, not by direct sight of the Lord.
Meaning
The phrase “we walk by faith” implies that the Christian life is a journey, and the manner in which we navigate this journey is through faith. Walking denotes continuous action, suggesting that faith should be an ongoing aspect of our lives, not a one-time decision. It is a daily reliance on God, trusting His promises, and living in obedience to His Word. The word “walk” is a common biblical metaphor for the conduct of one’s life, a journey or pilgrimage.
Paul contrasts walking by faith with walking by sight. Sight refers to the physical senses and the visible world, while faith goes beyond what we can perceive. Faith involves trusting in God’s unseen realities and promises, grasping spiritual truths that cannot be comprehended through mere observation. The contrast is not between faith and reason, but between faith and sight as the governing principle of life. The Christian life is directed by trust in God’s revealed truth rather than by what is immediately visible or empirically verifiable.
Walking by faith requires trusting in God’s guidance rather than relying solely on our own understanding. It means acknowledging that God’s ways and plans are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). By choosing faith over sight, we surrender our limited perspectives and lean on God’s infinite wisdom and sovereignty. It is an act of humility and dependence on Him.
Walking by faith often involves overcoming doubt and uncertainty. We may face situations where visible circumstances contradict what we believe or hope for. Yet, as believers, we are called to trust God’s faithfulness even in the face of adversity. This trust enables us to navigate challenges, persevere in difficult times, and find strength in His promises (Romans 4:20-21).
Ultimately, our faith should be centered on Jesus Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Through faith in Him, we receive forgiveness of sins, reconciliation with God, and eternal life. Our walk of faith should reflect our relationship with Jesus, growing in intimacy with Him, and aligning our lives with His teachings.
Biblical connections
This verse connects to the broader biblical theme that faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). The ultimate hope is that faith will one day become sight, when believers are present with the Lord. Until then, believers are to live by faith, not by sight.
Application
Cultivate a lifestyle of faith by seeking to deepen your relationship with God through prayer, studying His Word, and fellowship with other believers.
When faced with challenging circumstances, choose to trust God’s promises and His faithfulness, even when things seem contrary to what you believe.
Be willing to step out of your comfort zone and follow God’s leading, even when you cannot see the full picture.
Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength to walk by faith and resist the temptation to rely solely on your own understanding.
Reflection
Living by faith is a lifelong journey. As you continue to walk by faith, you will experience God’s faithfulness and see His plans unfold. This verse is not a promise that faith will remove all difficulties, but a description of the mode of the Christian pilgrimage. It grounds Christian confidence in the mode of faith, not in visible circumstances.
