what then shall we say was gained by abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? for if abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. [romans 4:1-2]
there’s no doubt that abraham made an impact for generations, but any boasting on his part should be in his motivation: his faith, not in his works. his God given faith led him to follow when it didn’t seem feasible or even remotely possible. he truly believed in God’s promises,
and he brought him outside and said, “look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.” then he said to him, “so shall your offspring be.” – Genesis 15:5
was it abraham’s faith or his works that made him righteous?
and he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness – genesis 15:6
faith in the Lord gave him righteousness. this faith lead him to do many good works. like believing he would have descendants at an old age or be willing to sacrifice his only child. faith led him to leave the country he knew with the promise of a new land for his descendants.
if we believe God is good, and believe in his promises, then good works will follow. faith drives action, faith accepts grace, faith follows calling.
for the law brings wrath, but where there is no law there is no transgression. that is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his offspring—not only to the adherent of the law but also to the one who shares the faith of abraham, who is the father of us all, -romans 4:15-16
Lord, give us more faith. Lord, let us believe you will provide when we are sent into the world. Lord, give us faith that you will fulfill your promises. remove the hardness and resistance of our hearts that prevent us from responding like abraham did. Father, show us where you are calling us.
~ joe lorsung