New Testament
Hebrews 11:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Without faith it is impossible to please God. Anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Compare translations
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
What Hebrews 11:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the essential role of faith in a relationship with God. It states that without faith, it is impossible to please God, meaning that belief in Him is fundamental. To approach God, one must first believe in His existence and trust that He rewards those who sincerely seek Him. This highlights the importance of both belief and action; faith is not just a mental agreement but involves actively pursuing a relationship with God. The verse reassures believers that God is not distant or indifferent; rather, He is attentive to those who earnestly seek Him, promising rewards for their faithfulness. This encourages individuals to cultivate a genuine faith that leads to a deeper connection with God, fostering a life that reflects His will and purpose.
How to apply Hebrews 11:6 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on strengthening your faith through prayer, scripture reading, and community. Actively seek God in your daily life, trusting that He is present and will reward your efforts. Cultivate a heart that desires to know Him more deeply.
Curated for this public verse page. Hebrews Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Hebrews 11:6
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Hebrews 11:6
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Hebrews
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Letter and sermon
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hebrews 11:6 mean?
Hebrews 11:6 means that faith is essential for pleasing God. It states that to approach God, one must believe in His existence and trust that He rewards those who sincerely seek Him.
What is the meaning of faith in Hebrews 11:6?
In Hebrews 11:6, faith refers to a deep belief in God’s existence and His willingness to reward those who earnestly pursue a relationship with Him. It emphasizes that faith is not just belief but also involves actively seeking God.
How can I apply Hebrews 11:6 in my life?
To apply Hebrews 11:6, focus on strengthening your faith through prayer and reading the Bible. Actively seek God in your daily life, trusting that He will reward your sincere efforts.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.