What does it mean that faith is a gift from God?

The assertion that faith is a gift from God indicates that it is not characteristic of human nature but a divine enabling. This concept is rooted in Ephesians 2:8-9, where it emphasizes that faith and salvation are gifts from God, thus excluding any basis for boasting in human effort. Philippians 1:29 reinforces this, stating that it has been granted to us not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for His sake. This clearly shows that the ability to believe is deeply intertwined with God’s sovereign purpose for His children, ensuring that faith originates from His love and mercy. Therefore, understanding faith as a gift fosters humility, prompting believers to recognize their dependence on God's grace rather than their achievements.