Why Faith Matters: Christopher Columbus
Faith: What do we mean by the word faith?
1. What does it mean to have FAITH?
2. What can having FAITH do for you?
Faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen. In its most general sense, though, faith means much the same thing as trust.
An example of faith from history can be found in the story of Christopher Columbus. He was an explorer known for his adventurous attitude. He had faith in himself and others, which helped him navigate the ocean and explore new places.
Who was Christopher Columbus?
Christopher Columbus is the man commonly credited with discovering America. He was born in 1451 in Italy, and his father was a weaver. When Columbus was around 25 years old, he started planning a trip (or voyage) from Italy to reach Asia by sea.
People in his country wanted goods from Asia, but these supplies were expensive because the journey from Asia to Italy on land was dangerous. Columbus had faith that he could find these new routes. So, he planned and he would eventually follow in the footsteps of other great explorers. Many of whom had no idea the North American Continent existed.
Columbus had faith in himself, his crew, and in God. He had faith that his trip would be a success. The King and Queen of Spain had faith in Christopher Columbus.
Christopher Columbus led a remarkable journey to find new trade routes and new lands. This is a great example of how faith is applied to early American history.
Columbus demonstrated great faith, as well as patience and perseverance.
He had faith that the voyage and exploration would be a success.
Columbus had to find many like-minded crew who were willing to brave the tough conditions on the Atlantic Ocean in search of new trade routes. While the crew was initially excited, a problem grew onboard the ships. The crew began to worry when they did not reach land. Because of their fear, they often threatened mutiny or rebellion. Columbus’ faith is what kept him going during that difficult time.
Columbus learned his seafaring skills while working in Portugal as a sea merchant. There he learned about navigation, chart-making, and the Atlantic wind systems. His voyages to West Africa in this job gave him valuable seagoing experience.
Columbus had faith in his skills and abilities as both a navigator and leader. This faith kept him calm during that difficult time, and he was able to put his crew at ease. Columbus demonstrated leadership through faith, which was eventually rewarded.
No one should fear undertaking any task…so long as the task is just, and the intention to undertake it is pure.
Christopher Columbus