Romans 4:1-3
Scripture: Romans 4:1-3 (ESV) “What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.'”
Devotion: Imagine you’re at a family reunion and someone starts bragging about their ancestors’ achievements. It’s an odd situation – because most of us would be at least a little impressed that the person you are talking to comes from such a distinguished lineage! However, you’re normally only impressed until you think about it and you realize that the achievements of the ancestors, don’t automatically transfer to them. The forefather’s achievements are not their accomplishments. The person in front of you are just beneficiaries of their ancestors’ legacy.
This scene is somewhat similar to what Paul addresses regarding Abraham. He’s like that notable ancestor in the faith family. Yet, Paul points out that the real legacy Abraham leaves us isn’t about his actions or achievements; it’s about faith. What makes Abraham’s story unique, and in fact Christianity unique among all the religions is that it is not based on achievement. It is based on faith in a divine promise.
Abraham had nothing special to give God. It wasn’t Abraham’s resume that put him in God’s good books. All he did, was trust in God’s promises. But this trust was credited to him as righteousness.
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This is radically different to all other religions. It means that our standing before God isn’t about tallying up good deeds or spiritual accolades. It’s about believing in who God is and what He has promised. Just as Abraham believed God’s seemingly impossible promise and it was counted to him as righteousness, we are called to believe in the ultimate promise fulfilled in Jesus—salvation and eternal life.
This foundation of faith, rather than shifting the responsibility from actions to mere belief, reorients our entire approach to life and God. It’s not a passive faith but an active trust that transforms how we live, making our lives a response to God’s grace rather than a bid for divine approval.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the example of Abraham, who reminds us that our relationship with You is built on faith, not our accomplishments. Help us to trust in Your promises and Your character, just as Abraham did. Strengthen our faith so that, like him, we may be counted as righteous in Your sight—not because of what we’ve done, but because of our belief in what You have done through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Challenge for the day: Today, take a moment to reflect on the promises of God that you need to trust more deeply. Perhaps it’s His provision, His presence in a difficult time, or His forgiveness. Choose one area where you’ve been trying to earn your way and instead, actively place your trust in God’s promise for that situation. Share this act of trust with a friend or family member, encouraging each other in your faith journeys.