18 Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping—believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have!” 19 And Abraham’s faith did not weaken, even though, at about 100 years of age, he figured his body was as good as dead—and so was Sarah’s womb.
20 Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. 21 He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. 22 And because of Abraham’s faith, God counted him as righteous. 23 And when God counted him as righteous, it wasn’t just for Abraham’s benefit. It was recorded 24 for our benefit, too, assuring us that God will also count us as righteous if we believe in him, the one who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God.
God’s Promises
I’m pretty sure that most of us would not be thrilled if God promised us the same thing he promised Abraham. For those who don’t know the story, you can read it in Genesis 18. God promises that Abraham and his wife Sarah will have a son. Not only that, but their descendants will be as numerous as the stars. So far, most of us wouldn’t have a problem with such a promise. However, at the time God made this promise, both Abraham and Sarah were in their 90’s! Again, I don’t think too many of us would be thrilled with that promise.
But Abraham believed by faith. His faith continued to grow until he saw the promise of God fulfilled. I love who Paul describes Abraham’s faith: He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises.
Do you have that kind of faith. Some days I do. Some days, not so much. However, I want to have that kind of faith all the time.
The fact is, God’s promises are true. When he promises something, we can count on it. It will happen just as he said it would.
And what’s the promise that Paul is telling us we can have complete hope is true? That Christ paid the price for our sin. We are free. We are accepted by God. He does see us as righteous. It’s true. Stop striving. Stop trying to earn God’s acceptance. It’s done. It’s a promise we can have confidence in.
My prayer: God, you know how I waiver. I doubt. I fear when I should trust. As the Apostle Thomas asked, “I believe. Help me with my unbelief.” That is my prayer today. I do believe that your promises are true and trustworthy. Yet, help me when I doubt. Help me when I second guess. Strengthen my faith. Amen.
Until tomorrow.
