Faith Over Perfectionنموونە

Read: Genesis 15; Romans 4:1–5, 20–25

SOAP: Genesis 15:6

Abram believed the LORD, and the LORD credited it as righteousness to him.

Though Abram’s actions did not always display unwavering faith, it is clear that he did believe God would fulfill His promise. Abram asked God how He would fulfill His great promises, promises that seemed impossible because of Abram’s age. God reassured Abram in his doubt, reminding him of who He is. Abram believed God, and God counted Abram’s belief as righteousness. 

The righteousness Abram received through his faith meant he was justified before God. It did not mean that Abram didn’t sin or make mistakes, but that God had made Abram righteous, something only God can do. God credited Abram with righteous standing before Him, no longer counting Abram’s sins against him. Abram was justified because of the righteousness God credited to him. 

Paul described Abram’s righteousness by faith in great detail in Romans 4. Abram’s works did not grant him righteousness, only his faith. Like Abram, we are saved by faith alone. Our works do not save us, our faith in Christ is what saves us. 

The Bible mentions the sins, flaws, and unbelief of every person except one: Jesus Christ. He alone lived a sinless life, and He alone is the One to whom righteousness can be credited based on His works. We are granted the righteousness of Christ, credited with His righteousness when we place our faith in Him. 

In Abram’s case, he was convinced God was able to do what He promised to do: give him an heir, give him the land, and make him a blessing. For us, placing our faith in Christ means we believe God will do what He said He will do. It means we are convinced Jesus’ perfect life and sacrifice on the cross is enough for us to be credited as righteous before God. We are given the righteousness of Christ when we place our faith in Him.  

God is looking for our faith the same way He was looking for Abram’s faith. He does not want or need our perfection or our great works for Him. It is our faith that makes us righteous.

Prayer

Lord God, I put my faith in You. I believe that faith in Jesus Christ is the only way to be counted as righteous before You. I place my faith in Jesus, believing that You will credit me with His righteousness. Amen.