Abraham was faithful to God despite his circumstances. In other words, when the world would say one thing, Abraham believed God, even if God’s promise seemed too good to be true. Paul used the example of Abraham to give us a clue about what faith looks like, and to drive home the notion that we are made right with God through faith, not by what we do.
Paul’s Jewish audience would know Abraham well from stories that had been passed down for generations. Paul’s Gentile audience would learn in this moment about a very faithful man who set an amazing example for all of us. What a hero of faith!
What did Paul say about Abraham? Paul calls him the “founder of our Jewish faith.” Paul points back to what Scripture tells us about Abraham: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” God chose to bless Abraham and give him a great inheritance. God promised Abraham many descendants, and that promise came when Abraham was old and childless. Despite how impossible it seemed, Abraham believed.
I love how Abraham displayed his devotion and faith. His hope never faltered. Paul said, “Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping.” We can learn a lot from Abraham. We may be facing some difficult times in our lives, but God’s promises are just as true for us.
God promised he’ll never leave us. Clinging to that promise can give us the hope we need when facing our own challenges. I can’t imagine what life would be like if I didn’t have God to depend on, knowing he is there fueling me with the power and strength that I need. That’s faith, too, believing in something I cannot see.
Are you totally convinced, like Abraham, that God can do what he says? Paul says that this kind of faith brings glory to God. It seems hard to fathom that our own devotion could mean that much to God, but it does. Just think of all the people who don’t believe what God has done and continues to do as his promises unfold. Too many people are putting their faith in the wrong places. How can we change that?
We can follow Abraham’s example of faith and trust that God’s promises are true. We can live our lives in ways that honor God. When we do that, we can’t help but draw attention to the peace we exhibit, the joy that bursts out from within us. When we share with others what Jesus means to us and pray for the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts, too, mighty things can happen. Believe it!
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, I believe in what you did for me and how it washed my sins away and made me right with God. I don’t have to wear myself out doing things to please you. I need only believe and trust you. Help me to share my faith with others by the way I live, the way I speak, and the way I show love. Help me to love as you love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
