Scripture

He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.

Observation

Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness. When we work for something, our wages are not a gift. But If we trust God for our salvation, this is a gift.

Although this gift of salvation was given to the Jews first (“the circumcised”), it was not for them alone because Abraham received righteousness, and that was before he was circumcised.

The promise of righteousness comes by grace, and we receive it through faith in the Lord Jesus.

Application

It is impossible for us to win God’s approval by our own efforts, whether by good deeds or charitable giving or religious duties. These things do not impress God at all, because they are what is expected of us any way.

God’s favour comes to us because He chooses to give it, because He loves us. His grace is far greater than we imagine and never runs out.

All we need to do is receive His grace by trusting in God. Then we are counted as if we had never sinned.

Prayer

Father, thank you for your limitless grace. Thank you for setting me free from the prison of sin. Amen.