Why is the doctrine of faith important for Christians?

The doctrine of faith is foundational for Christians because it is the means by which we receive the righteousness of Christ. As stated in Galatians 3:6, 'even as Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness,' our faith is not a work that contributes to our salvation, but a means of receiving the grace that God has provided in Christ. Faith allows us to stand justified before God, and as Romans 1:17 says, 'the just shall live by faith.' Our entire Christian life and relationship with God hinge on this principle of faith, which continually levels us to look away from ourselves and solely to Christ.