For this reason it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants, not only to the adherents of the law but also to those who share the faith of Abraham…” vs. 16
Romans 4:13-17
Paul assures the Romans that the promise of God to Abraham rested on grace, and it was therefore guaranteed to all his descendants. This declaration has continued to be foundational for every following generation of believers. We whole-heartedly cherish the gospel of grace and rely on it for the assurance of salvation. But Paul also reminds us that for grace to work its wonders on our hearts, there has to be faith. Faith is the point of connection between us and God. Where faith is not present, all the gifts of God will be as nothing in our lives. Without faith the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection is only a pointless story concocted by our ancestors. Without faith there is no forgiveness and no hope of eternal life. It will be as though the Word never became flesh and the Spirit never was given. Without faith God might as well be dead to us! We can see then why Paul says everything depends on faith. Unless we trust God, nothing that God has for us can ever be ours. This doesn’t mean that God doesn’t love the faithless. Indeed, Jesus poured out his life for unbelievers. But for God to be real in our hearts, there absolutely must be faith! There’s no other way.
Thought for the Day: What can a person do to get faith?
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