The explosive summary statement presented in the Apostle Paul’s argument in the first three chapters of Romans is this: “For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works…” (Romans 3:28) The entire fourth chapter supports this truth by focusing on Abraham’s life. No other individual in Scripture is both the physical father of the Jews and the spiritual father of both Jews and Christians. Abraham is truly a pioneer of faith. Courageously venturing out into uncharted territory and experiencing adventure with God changed Abraham’s life and will change our lives too. Abraham blazed a new trail of faith for generations to come.
Read these stirring words.
“In hope against hope, he believed, in order that he might become a father of many nations, according to that which had been spoken, ‘So shall your descendants be.’ And without becoming weak in faith, he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah’s womb; yet, with respect to the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief, but grew strong in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully assured that what He had promised, He was able also to perform.” (Romans 4:18-21)
These words “…were not written for Abraham alone, but also for us!” (Romans 4:23) Wow! This is for us! We have been called to step up and out. Our faith should be calling us on to new adventures and uncharted territory, too. Our faith should strengthen us through good times and difficult days as well. A new job, maybe? A relationship that needs to be renewed or repaired? Asking for forgiveness or the strength to forgive? Responding to God’s conviction on your heart to volunteer for a ministry in the church?
Faith like Abraham’s risks stepping up and out at any age, young or old, and dares to really believe God and go for it! God points Abraham out as an example to follow. So, pack up and move out this Sunday morning. Put your faith out there. Boldly trust God and know deep in your soul that He is able to do more than you think or imagine.
Alan
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