Scripture
What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter? 2 If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God. 3 What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”
4 Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. 5 However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness.
Reflection
Like many adults, my wife and I own a credit card. We use it whenever we need to buy a plane ticket, book a hotel or for cases of emergency. One of the main purposes of a credit card is so that you can have available funds at the helm should your bank account not have enough to cover the particular expense. In that case, the credit card issuer then steps into the picture and “covers” the expense for you which you then pay back at a later date.
So how then does this relate to faith being credited to us as righteousness? And how then does our faith pay the bill that is due? The thing about economics and faith is that there is always a bill to be paid. Regardless of whether that bill has been waived, there is still a cost that was incurred and still needed to be reconciled by someone to make things right or balanced. The spiritual debt we incur in life is so great that there is no available amount of righteousness we have of our own that can pay this bill and it must be paid. The thing is, it is not even our faith that pays the necessary costs. What faith does is unite us with the one who has the means to pay the spiritual cost of our transgressions. Jesus looked at the bill and saw that we could not pay it and said to us, “Don’t worry, I’ll cover it.” Knowing full well the real cost. That is how and why we can be called righteous in the sight of God.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Pray for wisdom, healing and peace across your home country.
