Walk by Faith Not by Sight: Meaning and Application
The phrase walk by faith not by sight comes from 2 Corinthians 5:7. The apostle Paul used it to explain how believers in Christ should live. Walking by faith means relying on God’s promises and eternal truth, rather than depending only on what is physically seen or understood. It is not blind belief but a confident trust in God’s Word and His eternal perspective.
What Does It Mean to Walk by Faith Not by Sight?
To walk by faith not by sight means to conduct life with trust in God rather than basing decisions only on visible circumstances. In Scripture, “walk” refers to daily conduct and lifestyle. Therefore, walking by faith involves:
- Trusting God even when circumstances are unclear.
- Living with eternity in view, not just temporary outcomes.
- Obeying God’s Word over cultural or personal preferences.
- Believing God’s promises, even when they are not yet fulfilled.
This lifestyle requires spiritual vision. Faith allows believers to see the unseen and hold on to eternal realities rather than being controlled by temporary appearances.
What It Does Not Mean
Some misunderstand the phrase and assume walking by faith means being irrational, detached, or naïve. Scripture clarifies that this is not the case:
- Not unintelligent – Faith is based on truth and conviction, not wishful thinking (Hebrews 11:1).
- Not sheltered – Paul described trials, persecution, and struggles, yet urged believers to walk by faith (2 Corinthians 4:8–9).
- Not aloof – Walking by faith does not mean isolation. Instead, it drives believers to engage with others and share the gospel (2 Corinthians 5:20).
Walking by faith provides strength and perspective:
- Perceptive living – It shifts focus from temporary problems to eternal realities (2 Corinthians 4:18).
- Resilience – Faith sustains believers through trials, knowing that difficulties produce eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:16–17).
- Engagement – Faith fuels compassion for people, seeing them as eternally valuable (2 Corinthians 5:16–20).
How to Walk by Faith Not by Sight
Believers can apply this principle by:
- Trusting God’s Word daily – Rely on Scripture rather than personal feelings or cultural trends.
- Obeying even when difficult – Choose righteousness over sin, even at personal cost.
- Keeping an eternal perspective – Focus on heavenly rewards rather than temporary gains (Matthew 6:19–20).
- Depending on the Holy Spirit – Allow God’s Spirit to guide decisions (John 16:13).
- Living with courage – Face trials with confidence, knowing God is faithful.
To walk by faith not by sight is to live with trust in God’s promises and eternal truth. It is a daily decision to obey, trust, and rely on Him regardless of circumstances. This lifestyle builds resilience, deepens spiritual vision, and keeps life aligned with eternal purpose.
FAQ on Walk by Faith Not by Sight
1. Where in the Bible does it say walk by faith not by sight?
It is found in 2 Corinthians 5:7, where Paul writes, “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
2. What does walk by faith not by sight mean in simple terms?
It means trusting God’s promises and guidance, even when circumstances are uncertain or unclear.
3. How do you practice walking by faith daily?
Read and apply Scripture, pray for guidance, obey God’s Word, and choose trust over fear in every decision.
4. Is walking by faith the same as blind faith?
No. Walking by faith is not blind. It is grounded in God’s truth and promises, which provide a reliable foundation.
5. Why is walking by faith important for Christians?
It keeps believers focused on eternal realities, strengthens resilience in trials, and builds deeper trust in God.
6. What happens when you live by sight instead of faith?
Living by sight limits decisions to human logic and circumstances, often leading to fear, compromise, and short-term thinking.
7. How does walking by faith affect relationships with others?
It helps believers see people through God’s eternal perspective, leading to love, compassion, and sharing the gospel.
