Romans 4:23-24 “23 Now not for his sake only was it written that it was credited to him, 24 but for our sake also, to whom it will be credited, as those who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead,”
Abraham was declared righteous before he had the mark on his body (circumcision). The physical came after the spiritual. He was declared righteous because he believed God. We, too, are declared righteous, not from anything that we do, but because of our belief. Aren’t you glad?
So many people try and try and try to please God by works or service. As long as they are serving, they feel God loves them. But when they “fall short” of their self-imposed service quota they feel unworthy and doubt God’s love for them.
TEACHING MOMENT
It is so important for our children to know that there is NOTHING they can do to earn God’s love. There is nothing they can do to become righteous – that is, except believing Jesus died for their sins and confessing Him as Lord. Our children must learn from us the simplicity of the Gospel. The last thing we want our children to believe is that they can earn their salvation.
How can you teach them this? How about modeling it in the way you love them? Love them unconditionally. Sure, we are always pleased when they obey, but their obedience doesn’t earn them our love. Their obedience is a result of our love. Tell them that. Make sure they understand the difference. We obey God because He first loved us (while we were still sinners).
Can you say that about your walk with Christ? Are you so busy trying to please Him that you are not enjoying Him? Stop it! Rest in Him! Let Him have His perfect way in your life. Experience the joy of knowing His peace that comes from obedience to His Word.
A Moment In Time 