It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith.
New International Version (NIV)
“From the lips of infants, God has ordained praise . . .” My head is full of Vacation Bible School songs today, new and old. Remember the old one: “Father Abraham had many sons, and many sons had father Abraham, and I am one of them and so are you . . .” Abraham has many daughters and sons in our world. He is the father of both Jews and Arabs.
Paul says more. Abraham is the father of all who believe in Christ. God did not justify Abraham because of his good works. The early Christians latched on to Genesis 15:6, “Abraham believed God and God credited it to him as righteousness.” The only way anyone is ever saved is through faith. Old Testament saints looked forward to a future redemption through a messiah. We trust God and believe as we look back, remembering Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Why did Abraham believe? What did he see in God? He hoped against hope because he was fully persuaded that God had power to do as he promised. What has God promised you? Hold on to that promise. God is able.
Pray with me the words my mother sang as she stood beside me in church: “Jesus, Jesus how I trust him, how I’ve proved him o’er and o’er. Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus, O for grace to trust him more.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture reading for today:
Romans 4
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