May 23, 2012 (2 Chronicles 6-7; Psalm 135; Romans 4)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “So the promise is received by faith. It is given as a free gift. And we are all certain to receive it, whether or not we live according to the law of Moses, if we have faith like Abraham’s. For Abraham is the father of all who believe.” Romans 4:16 NLT
Observation: The promise of salvation is received by faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation cannot be earned or worked for; it is given by God Himself to all who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. It will not be granted based on the amount of works we perform. It is not reserved only for those who are wealthy and successful. Salvation is freely given by God the Father based solely on the choice to believe and receive God’s Son Jesus the Christ. Whether Jew or Gentile, no one will be saved by keeping the Law of Moses. Yet all who have the faith of Abraham can and will receive the gift.
Application: Salvation is received by faith in Jesus Christ according to God’s grace. Yet His word teaches us that faith without works is dead. Saving faith is a faith so vitally important that it cannot avoid the expressions of love and obedience toward the Savior. Faith that merely trusts God to forgive our sins but does not include sincere repentance from sin and an active commitment to Christ as Lord falls short of saving faith. It is unbiblical to emphasize faith and ignore the broader picture of salvation and what it really means. Salvation by faith includes not only being saved “from” condemnation but also saved “for” fellowship with God. Paul said, “Well then, if we emphasize faith, does this mean we can forget about the law? Of course not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law.” (Romans 3:31)
Prayer: Dear Lord, I thank You for Your amazing grace and mercy that provide and protect me every day. I thank You for the gift of salvation that You give by faith in Jesus Christ. Help me learn and understand what it means to be saved by faith. Help me remember that I’m not only saved from condemnation but I’m saved for fellowship with You. Teach me Your ways oh Lord and fill me with Your thoughts, in Jesus name, Amen!