The choice to believe can be a substantial form of action in and of itself. For most people, the difference between a known and unknown path is separated by a gulf of belief that is excruciatingly difficult for them to cross, even when very strong reasons and desires exist to suggest it should be done.
No one is forced to exercise faith. Everyone has the choice to believe or not:
Therefore, O my son, whosoever will come may come and partake of the waters of life freely; and whosoever will not come the same is not compelled to come; but in the last day it shall be restored unto him according to his deeds. (Alma 42:27)
Jesus routinely counseled his followers to not only act, but also choose to believe (see, for example, Mark 5:36). Some substantial outcomes require tremendous belief, but hardly any physical action. For example, mountains can be moved, the dead can be raised, the sick healed, and many other mighty miracles, by speaking only if one believes:
And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. (Matthew 21:22)
And Jesus said unto them...If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. (Matthew 17:20)
Actual belief is such a deep test of the heart. If you can say something and truly believe it, it will be done. This isn’t a blank check, because sincerity constrains what can be done through:
- Your knowledge of God. If you know that you know nothing about God, how can you be confident in your belief? You can’t believe in God completely in ignorance.
- Your obedience to God. Your confidence will be commensurate with the degree to which you have fully reconciled to God in your desires, thoughts, words, and actions.