In machinery torque is defined as the measured ability of a rotating element, as of a gear or shaft, to overcome turning resistance.

Note that torque is measureable. The scale is called foot pound. The instrument for recording the amount of torque is a dynamometer. The scale on this device will remain at zero until what? Until that element is put into motion. Given the design of the rotating element was meant to produce torque, the potential for torques exists in the design. It is a thing hoped for but not seen until put into motion.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Faith is to the Spirit as torque is to an engine. Faith is built into the design but is only evidenced when put into motion.

James 2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

Image if you would that you pop the hood on your car and the engine is missing. James 2:26 is the spiritual equivalent to that image. No spirit, no faith, no move of the spirit, dead works.