Walking by faith and not by sight

We walk by faith, not by sight. v7

Those who boast about outward appearance and not about what is in the heart. v12

That those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. v15

From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. v16
(2 Corinthians 5)

What does it mean to walk by faith and not by sight? In the context of 2 Corinthians 5, Paul is talking about individuals who are impressed and try to impress by outward appearances and the trappings of faith. But we know that, "The LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." (1Sa 16:7)

While it is true that what is inside will be shown by what is outside. It is possible for dissemblers to display an outward appearance of faith they do not walk in. This was Jesus' main point of contention with the Pharisees.

To walk by faith and not by sight in this context means we do not judge ourselves or others by external measures. Whatever might seem impressive to worldly men. Rather we are to recognise that what really counts is a sincere heart that is right before God. We make it our ambition to be pleasing to God rather than impressive to men!

So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. 2 Corinthians 5:9