Scripture:
Romans 4:3-5 For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.” Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.
Observation:
Paul continues his discussion around the principle of faith versus works. He uses Abraham as an example which proves this is not a new principle but one that has been around for a long time. It is one that we still struggle with today. People think they can get to Heaven by works. Or that by being “a good person” they can achieve the same goal as a believer in Christ.
Paul describes why we have laws. Laws serve a purpose but just by obeying laws does not mean we will go to Heaven. Alternatively, even if we do not obey the laws, we can still go to Heaven by God’s grace.
Application:
No matter how much time has passed, no matter how crazy the world gets, no matter how advanced technology becomes the simple truths of the Bible have not changed. We serve the living God. He brings life into this world. He can give life to the dead. Although we obey his laws and serve Him, it is not our obedience or our service that will get us anywhere. It is our faith and belief in the fact that He sent His son, Jesus, into this world to save us. He was crucified and died and rose from the dead three days later. We just celebrated this fact last Sunday.
God promises to save us but He also promises to judge us. He will judge our actions and judge our heart. Our service gains us nothing. Our belief gains us everything. Should I stop serving since it my belief that saves me? No. We serve because of our belief and faith. While I serve, I should remember why I am serving and WHO I am serving. I should also not be concerned when others don’t serve. I must remember why I serve, serve with a glad heart and let me service be an avenue to lead others to a closer relationship with Jesus.
Prayer:
Open and soften my heart. Let me remember who I serve and why I serve. Let me not think that there is anything too small to matter. If it is for your kingdom, let it all be big.