Chapter 13: Ventures of Faith

Faith That Works Through Love in Soul Care

Faith receives what grace provides and expresses itself through love. The Christian life begins by faith, continues by faith, and bears fruit through faith. As Galatians 5:6 says, “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.”

Pastor Chuck Smith often described ministry as a “venture of faith.” He lived by the principle that where God guides, God provides. The same principle applies to the ministry of biblical counseling. Every conversation, every act of encouragement, and every moment of prayer is a venture of faith—trusting God to use His Word to accomplish His work.

At the Calvary Chapel Fellowship of Biblical Counselors, we emphasize that faith is not passive optimism but active dependence. The Ministering Servant believes that God’s promises are true and steps out in obedience to minister them. The Disciple in Care learns to trust God’s Word over feelings and circumstances.

Bob Hoekstra wrote, “Faith draws upon the resources of Christ; unbelief looks to the resources of man.” Counseling that is done in faith points people away from self-reliance to Christ-reliance.

The process of soul care is not a formula but a relationship. Faith keeps that relationship vibrant. As we trust the Lord, He produces change from the inside out. When faith works through love, the result is fruit that glorifies God and edifies others.

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

Hebrews 11:6