By: Elizabeth Louis
Faith vs. Fantasy: How to Know the Difference
We’re told to “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). But how do you know if you’re truly walking by faith or just chasing a fantasy?
Both can feel exciting. Both can look like stepping into the unknown. But only one leads to God’s promises.
Here’s how to tell the difference.
1. Faith is Rooted in God’s Word, Fantasy is Rooted in Emotion
Faith is built on what God has said (Romans 10:17). It aligns with scripture, wisdom, and God’s character.
Fantasy is based on what feels good. It often starts with, “I really want this,” instead of, “God is leading me.”
✅ Example of Faith: You feel called to start a business. You pray, seek wisdom, and move forward as God opens doors.
🚫 Example of Fantasy: You assume God will make you rich overnight and take reckless financial risks without wisdom.
Ask Yourself: Is this confirmed in scripture and prayer, or am I just going with what I feel?
Proverbs 28:19 warns, “Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies will have their fill of poverty.”
In other words, fantasies lead to lack because they are not grounded in reality or obedience to God. Faith, on the other hand, moves forward with wisdom and diligence.
2. Faith Requires Obedience, Fantasy Avoids Hard Work
Walking by faith isn’t just about believing—it’s about doing what God says (James 2:26). It requires discipline, patience, and wisdom.
Fantasy avoids discomfort. It chases quick results and ignores responsibility.
✅ Example of Faith: You feel led to write a book. You wake up early, research, and work on it daily, trusting God with the outcome.
🚫 Example of Fantasy: You daydream about being a bestselling author but never actually write.
Ask Yourself: Am I willing to take consistent, obedient steps, or do I just want an easy shortcut?
3. Faith is Tested, Fantasy Avoids Resistance
Faith is refined through trials (1 Peter 1:7). God often tests our faith to grow us.
Fantasy collapses at the first sign of hardship. If something doesn’t go as planned, it’s abandoned.
✅ Example of Faith: God gives you a vision for ministry. When obstacles come, you seek Him and press through.
🚫 Example of Fantasy: You expect everything to happen easily. When doors don’t open fast enough, you give up.
Ask Yourself: Am I willing to endure difficulty, or do I quit when things get tough?
4. Faith Produces Fruit, Fantasy Produces Confusion
Jesus said you will know something by its fruit (Matthew 7:16).
Faith leads to peace, provision, and transformation. God moves in ways that confirm His direction.
Fantasy leads to constant striving, anxiety, and unmet expectations. It feels chaotic and directionless.
✅ Example of Faith: You take a bold step, and God confirms it through open doors, provision, and wise counsel.
🚫 Example of Fantasy: You make impulsive moves, and things keep falling apart with no sense of God’s leading.
Ask Yourself: Do I see evidence of God’s hand, or am I forcing something?
5. Faith Seeks God First, Fantasy Seeks Self First
Faith is about God’s plan (Matthew 6:33).
Fantasy is about personal gain, status, or validation.
✅ Example of Faith: You pursue a dream because it serves God’s kingdom and helps others.
🚫 Example of Fantasy: You chase success because you want recognition or material things.
Ask Yourself: Is this about glorifying God, or is it just about me?
How to Discern the Difference
- Pray and seek God’s wisdom (James 1:5).
- Check if it aligns with scripture (2 Timothy 3:16).
- Look for wise confirmation (Proverbs 11:14).
- Watch for God’s fruit, not forced results (Galatians 5:22-23).
- Trust God’s timing, not your impatience (Habakkuk 2:3).
Walking by faith requires wisdom, patience, and surrender. Chasing a fantasy leads to disappointment and burnout.
If you’re unsure, pause and seek God. He will always lead you in the right direction.
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