Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

— Hebrews 11:6

When we say the Apostles’ Creed, we begin with the words “I believe in God . . .” And what do we mean by this?

Sometimes we use the words I believe to say that we agree with certain facts. For example, we might say, “I believe that the earth is round.” But belief goes deeper than agreeing with facts.

With the words, “I believe in God,” we are saying much more than that we agree with facts about God. Sure, we are accepting the basic biblical truths about God’s existence. But when we say, “I believe in God,” our hearts are involved as well. Our belief means trusting in God, committing ourselves to God and his teaching for our lives, and following and obeying God in what he says and where he leads. With the opening words of the Apostles’ Creed, we affirm that we believe and trust in God himself.

Many believers throughout the centuries have memorized the Apostles’ Creed—often by saying it again and again in worship services. Sadly, though, our minds can wander when we repeat the creed that way. So it’s important to think about the words we are saying. The next time you say the creed, be sure to say it as an expression of the truth and as a commitment to following God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit with all of your heart!

Dear God, we believe in you. Help us to trust and serve you with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. Amen.