Thoughts & Reflections

Walk into 2025 with faith in action, shifting to a new level!

As we step into 2025, many of us carry aspirations, uncertainties, and even fears. So do I. It’s a new year, a blank slate, a fresh opportunity to deepen our relationship with God. In 2025, I want to go beyond simply having faith but also experience having trust which is faith in action.

Hebrews 11:1 (ESV) says, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

Faith is believing in God’s character; believing He is who He says He is. Faith is also believing in God’s promises; believing He will do what He says He will do. Faith without works is dead. James 2:26 (ESV) tells us, "For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead." Faith must be accompanied by action. It is through our actions that faith comes alive and proves itself.

Abraham had faith that God would fulfil His promise of making him the father of nations, but he also acted on that faith when he obeyed God and offered Isaac on the altar (Genesis 22).

When faith is in action, we have trust. Trust is when we actively live out our faith, even when circumstances seem uncertain or scary. Trust is faith in action. It is a deliberate choice to rely on God. It is saying, “I will step out because I believe God will catch me.” Hence, trust turns faith into obedience.

Peter had faith in Jesus’ power, but trust was required to step out of the boat (Matthew 14:28-29). It was his trust, faith in action, that allowed him to walk on water and turned faith into obedience.

As I entered 2025, I asked myself if I truly have faith in God, or do I simply say I believe without taking any action? Am I trusting Him with my decisions, aspirations, finances, health, relationships, and future?

Admittedly, I have some faith (believe) but lacking much in trusting the Lord completely.

What will I commit to do to SHIFT to the new level?

1. Surrender my fears: Trust requires letting go of control. Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): “5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
2. Take bold steps: What is God calling me to act upon this year? Trust Him and put faith in action.
3. Commit to obedience: Trust is shown through obedience even when it’s uncomfortable or unconventional.

Faith is the foundation, but trust is what builds the house. As we step into 2025, let us not only believe in God but also act on that belief. Let our faith move us to trust Him fully, walking boldly into the year ahead with confidence that He will go before us and lead us.

Let us obey and allow God to shift us to a new level in 2025!

Blessings,
Wan Leng Ho
Co-chair of NCW