WEDNESDAY June 17, 2020
Accounted for Righteousness
What then shall we say that Abraham our father has found 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 accounted to him for righteousness.”
Romans 4:1-3
Before the Law was even given, God demonstrated His justification through Abraham––a heathen. His father Terah worshiped idols, the sun and moon. Abraham came from an idolatrous family––from darkness into the light. Look at your background and be excited about what God has done for you: But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light… (1 Peter 2:9).
Justification is a word that sets the child of God free from all guilt and sin. Justification––just by faith––simple. God’s justification should excite Christians. Through faith they have salvation. It separates them from cults whose focus is on doing works. People trapped in the cults do not understand the freedom of justification by faith.
Some Christians still struggle tremendously with guilt. Satan condemns them, but Paul helped them to understand: There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit (Romans 8:1). Do not believe the lie instead of the truth. God says, “ Not guilty!” If God said it––it is a done deal. Then accept it. We are justified by faith––justification.
A Christian will trip and fall. When you do, make things right. Repent and by faith change your ways. The Christian life is not hard or difficult; you now have a relationship with God. Never look to yourself for justification––look to Jesus. He is the Mediator, your Redeemer. He forgives your sins. He washes and cleanses you. Fully understand what God has done and how He has set you free from your sin (1 John 1:9).
The greatest enemy to human souls is the self-righteous spirit which makes men look to themselves for salvation.
~Charles Spurgeon~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!