When it comes to belief in God, there’s both encouraging and sobering news.
According to Pew Research, nearly 90% of U.S. adults believe in God or a higher power: 54% believe in “God as described in the Bible,” while another 34% believe in a non-biblical higher power or spiritual force. But even with these numbers, our society doesn’t seem to reflect strong Christian values. The Bible warns, “This people honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me” (Matt. 15:8; Is. 29:13).
Jesus also spoke about the few who find the narrow path that leads to life (Matt. 7:14). How do we reconcile this with widespread professions of faith? As Catholic theologian Thomas Aquinas advised, we should make an important distinction: believing in God versus believing God.
Two Aspects of Faith
As Christians, we often talk about “faith in God,” yet faith can take two forms: faith that God exists and faith in what God has said. When we hear that nine in ten Americans believe in God, that’s largely faith that. But true Christian faith involves not just believing that God exists but also trusting in His words and promises.
The writer of Hebrews captures this distinction: “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is [faith that] and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him [faith in]” (Heb. 11:6). True faith involves both acknowledging God’s existence and trusting His character.
Believing God, Not Just Believing in God
Faith in God is about trusting His character, much like having faith in a loved one. When Christians talk about “faith in God,” it’s not a blind belief but a trust built on reason and relationship. Just as you would trust a spouse’s character and words, so Christians place their trust in God’s promises.
You may have encountered someone who says they believe in God but dismisses much of what the Bible teaches. This highlights the difference between merely believing in God and actually believing God. Even demons believe in God’s existence, as James reminds us: “You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder” (James 2:19). Faith that doesn’t transform our lives falls short of saving faith. As James points out, “faith without works is useless” (James 2:20).
Listening to God’s Word
Throughout Scripture, we see the consequences of ignoring God’s message. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees, who believed in God yet rejected His teachings, calling them a “brood of vipers” (Matt. 23:33). He questioned His critics: “He who is of God hears the words of God” (John 8:47). When we truly trust God, we believe and live out His words.
Paul points to Abraham as an example of faith, saying, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness” (Rom. 4:3). This kind of faith, which trusts God’s promises, identifies us as children of faith (Gal. 3:7).
Where Do You Stand?
Do you merely believe that God exists, or do you believe in what He says? Jesus warns that on judgment day, some who call Him “Lord” will hear, “I never knew you; depart from me” (Matt. 7:21-23).
Let’s strive to go beyond merely believing in God’s existence and fully trust His word. According to Jesus, the difference could determine our eternal destiny.