Help My Unbelief! Part 4

In English, there are some subtle, yet very important differences between belief and faith. But, if the original words could mean either faith (verb) or belief (noun), why does it matter?

Let's go back to the original languages and trace the words back to their roots.

H539 aman (v)

root – to build up, firm, continue (persevere)

related to H3225 (yamiyn) to turn to right hand

G4100 pisteuo (v)

faith, credit, belief (Gen 15:6)

root G3982 – to persuade, trust, obey

Each of the words has a verb root. That means, that in Greek and Hebrew, the idea behind faith or belief is a verb. It is not something that happens to us, it is something WE DO.

But that's not all! In Hebrew, faith is related to H3225 – yamiyn. This means to turn to the right hand. Who is our right hand? YHWH!! (Ex 15:16, Ps 18:35, Ps 63:8)

In Greek, the root of belief is a verb and implies obedience.

“Lord, I believe (verb)! Help me with my unbelief! (noun)” (Mk 9:24)

Lord, I am here, asking, but I don't understand how this will work.

There may be days, weeks, or even months when you doubt. You may not even believe, but you can persevere. You may not fully understand Yah's will for you, but you can get up every morning and walk in the good works He has created for you. You may not know how the parachute is packed, but you can trust in YHWH and jump!