Romans 4:13-16
Think about your faith walk. When did it begin and what does it mean to you? Faith is a simple thing, but it can be hard to comprehend or explain. Some people think that faith is nothing but a mental assent to a truth, that it is based on proof. Some believe that faith is just a feeling, maybe even wishful thinking. Others believe it’s a feeling of deep-seated confidence or trust and assurance in God’s promises.
If you really want to know what faith is, you might have to see it in action. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 4, begins with Abraham, the man of faith.
God promised Abraham and his descendants that he would give them the world. This promise wasn't made because Abraham had obeyed a law, but because his faith in God made him acceptable. If Abraham and his descendants were given this promise because they had obeyed a law, then faith would mean nothing, and the promise would be worthless. God becomes angry when his Law is broken. But where there isn't a law, it cannot be broken. Everything depends on having faith in God, so that God's promise is assured by his gift of undeserved grace. This promise isn't only for Abraham's descendants who have the Law. It is for all who are Abraham's descendants because they have faith, just as he did. Abraham is the ancestor of us all. Romans 4:13-16 (CEV)
Abraham's relationship with God began with a command and a set of promises. God told Abraham to go from his country into another land. Abraham believed all of God’s promises, so Abraham went. Abraham had faith in God and became the ancestor of many nations. His faith never became weak.
Abraham’s faith is a model faith, but it is also a human faith. He had hope and he did not waver in unbelief. His faith in God’s promise never failed. Abraham’s faith was a trust in God. It is the kind of faith that just steps out when God speaks. That is what God wants from you and me. He wants us to focus on him, to live in faith, love, and hope. Faith will give us peace and comfort when we don’t understand. Faith trusts God’s promise that he is always with us. Faith brings us nearer to God. God is in control and all things are possible with God. Maybe when we are asked about our faith, we shouldn’t worry about defining the word, but instead talk about our God and His love, grace, and promises. God promises that through simple faith in the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of his Son, we will be saved. The promise is for ALL who have faith.
Questions for Reflection:
- If someone asked you to explain faith, what would you say?
- What challenges do you face in your life that seem impossible to overcome? How can Abraham’s faith inspire you to face these challenges with hope?
Prayer:
Dear God,
We know you are a faithful God. Help us to have a faith like Abraham’s, a faith that does not waiver despite what is going on around us. Fill us with your hope and joy and peace. Help us to walk by faith, not by sight, knowing that you are in control and that you love us unconditionally. Amen
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