Today's Reading:Old Testament:
Deuteronomy 29 - 31
New Testament:
Romans 4
Focus Verses: Romans 4:18-25
18Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." 19Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah's womb was also dead. 20Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. 22This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." 23The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, 24but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Insight:
Abraham recognized that the things God promised he could do for him and through him would only be possible by God's power. Abraham believed God had the power to keep his promises. This faith is essential for righteousness.
Response and Action:
Like Abraham, faith is essential for me to be righteous -- faith that Jesus died for my sins and was raised to life for my justification. I recognize my own weakness and inability to be what God has called me to be, but I also recognize God's power to keep his promises. I believe that God has begun a good work in me and that he will be faithful to complete what he has started.
O God, I believe that for my sake Jesus was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the scriptures. Because I believe in his resurrection, I believe you have the power to keep your promises to me. By the power of your Holy Spirit, O God, lead, teach, transform, shape, and strengthen me, that I might delight in your will and walk in your ways to the glory of your name. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.
Proverbs: 30:5
"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him."
Resources:
Believing God
by Beth Moore
