What does walk by faith and not by sight mean?

Among the many profound statements in the Bible, few are as widely quoted and deeply challenging as, “We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7, ESV). This simple phrase, penned by the Apostle Paul, has inspired countless believers to persevere through uncertainty, hardship, and seasons of doubt. Yet, its meaning is often misunderstood or reduced to a vague encouragement to “just believe.” What does it truly mean to walk by faith and not by sight according to Scripture?

The Biblical Context of “Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

The phrase “walk by faith, not by sight” comes from Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians. In this section of the letter (2 Corinthians 4–5), Paul addresses the reality of suffering, the hope of resurrection, and the assurance of eternal life. He contrasts the visible, temporal world with the invisible, eternal realities that God has promised.

Paul writes, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18). He continues in chapter five, emphasizing that believers live in these “earthly tents” (our mortal bodies) but look forward to a heavenly dwelling. In this in-between state, Christians are called to walk by faith—trusting in what God has revealed, even though it is not always visible or tangible.

Faith Versus Sight: Defining the Terms

To “walk by faith” means to live one’s life based on trust in God, His promises, and His character, rather than depending solely on what can be perceived by our physical senses or immediate circumstances. “Sight,” in this context, refers to the external, visible world—the things we can see, touch, and measure.

Faith is not blind optimism or wishful thinking. According to Hebrews 11:1, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” It is a confident trust in God’s faithfulness, even when evidence is not immediately visible. Sight, on the other hand, is rooted in the physical world and is limited by human understanding and perception.

Old Testament Examples of Walking by Faith

The call to walk by faith is not new to the New Testament. Throughout the Old Testament, we see numerous examples of individuals who trusted God beyond what their eyes could see.

Abraham: The Father of Faith

God called Abraham to leave his homeland for a place he had never seen, promising to make him a great nation (Genesis 12:1–3). Abraham obeyed, not knowing where he was going (Hebrews 11:8). When told that he would have a son in his old age, Abraham believed God’s promise despite seemingly impossible circumstances (Romans 4:18–21).

Moses: Trusting the Invisible God

Moses chose to identify with God’s people rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of Egypt. Hebrews 11:27 says, “he endured as seeing him who is invisible.” Moses led Israel out of Egypt, trusting in God’s guidance through the Red Sea and the wilderness, despite the visible dangers and challenges.

The Israelites: Stepping into the Unknown

When the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, the priests carrying the Ark stepped into the river before the waters parted (Joshua 3:13–17). They acted on God’s word, not on what their eyes could see.

Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Walking by Faith

Jesus Himself perfectly embodied what it means to walk by faith. He trusted the Father’s will in every situation, even when it led to suffering and death on the cross. Hebrews 12:2 urges believers to look to Jesus, “the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

During His earthly ministry, Jesus frequently called His disciples to trust Him beyond what was visible. When He urged Peter to walk on water, Peter succeeded as long as he focused on Jesus and not the wind and waves (Matthew 14:28–31). When the disciples faced the storm on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus rebuked their lack of faith, reminding them that God’s presence and power are greater than their fears (Mark 4:35–41).

Walking by Faith in Daily Life

So how does this principle shape the ordinary, everyday experience of believers?

Trusting God’s Promises Over Circumstances

Walking by faith means trusting in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem contrary. It is believing that God is good and sovereign, even when life is confusing or painful. This does not mean ignoring reality or denying difficulties, but rather interpreting them through the lens of faith.

For example, a believer may face financial hardship, illness, or loss. Walking by faith is not pretending these struggles do not exist, but holding fast to the promises of God’s provision, presence, and ultimate victory.

Obedience Without Full Understanding

Walking by faith often requires obedience before full understanding. Like Abraham or the Israelites, we may be called to move forward without knowing all the details or outcomes. Faith is the willingness to take the next step, trusting that God will provide what is needed in His perfect timing.

Perseverance Through Trials

The Christian life is not free of suffering. In fact, trials are often the very means by which faith is refined (1 Peter 1:6–7). Walking by faith means persevering through difficulty, clinging to the hope that God is at work even when we cannot see the results.

Living with Eternal Perspective

Paul’s context for “walk by faith, not by sight” is rooted in the reality of eternity. Believers are called to live with their eyes fixed on what is unseen—the coming kingdom of God, the resurrection, and eternal life. This perspective shapes priorities, values, and decisions, allowing believers to invest in what truly lasts.

Common Misconceptions About Walking by Faith

Because the idea of faith is so central to Christianity, it is sometimes misunderstood or misapplied. Here are a few misconceptions to avoid:

Faith Is Not a Denial of Reality

Faith is not pretending everything is fine or refusing to acknowledge pain and struggle. True faith faces reality honestly but refuses to let it have the final word.

Faith Is Not Opposed to Reason

Biblical faith is not irrational. It is rooted in the evidence of God’s character, His works throughout history, and the testimony of Scripture. Faith may go beyond what can be seen, but it is not contrary to reason.

Faith Is Not a Guarantee of Comfort or Success

Walking by faith does not mean God will always make things easy or grant every desire. Many faithful believers in Scripture endured great suffering, but their hope was in God’s ultimate promises, not in immediate results.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

Walking by faith is not something believers accomplish on their own. The Holy Spirit empowers and guides Christians, helping them trust God and live in obedience. Galatians 5:16 encourages believers to “walk by the Spirit,” which goes hand in hand with walking by faith.

Through prayer, Scripture, and community, the Spirit strengthens faith and gives wisdom for daily decisions. When doubts arise, the Spirit reminds believers of God’s truth and leads them back to trust.

Practical Ways to Walk by Faith

While the concept may seem abstract, there are concrete ways to cultivate a life that walks by faith:

1. Regularly Read and Reflect on Scripture

The Bible is filled with God’s promises and stories of faith. Regular reading helps renew the mind and anchors the heart in truth.

2. Pray Honestly and Persistently

Prayer is an act of faith—coming to God with needs, fears, and hopes. Honest, persistent prayer strengthens trust and reliance on God.

3. Step Out in Obedience

Take action on what God has revealed, even if all the details are not clear. Faith grows as it is exercised.

4. Remember God’s Faithfulness

Keep a record of answered prayers and past provisions. Remembering how God has worked in the past fuels faith for the present and future.

5. Seek Community Support

Walking by faith is not a solo journey. Surrounding oneself with other believers provides encouragement, accountability, and shared wisdom.