our faith: romans 4 & 5

Paul starts Romans chapter 4 by writing about Abraham. Abraham was not acceptable to God because of his good ways. instead, Romans 4:3 says, "For the scriptures tell us, 'Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.'" we cannot be righteous because of our good works, because we have all sinned. but we are counted righteous because of our faith in Jesus.

we are not counted as righteous because of our works, but it is because of our faith and God's grace because He forgives sinners. Abraham trusted God and had faith. even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham still believed. his faith never wavered, but instead, his faith grew stronger. Paul even writes in Romans 4:20, "Abraham never waivered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God." Abraham's faith brought glory to God. wow. Abraham's faith was so strong that it brought glory to God. we should also strive to bring glory to God because of our faith. letting our faith in God be known and that we shine our light to the world.

Paul writes in Romans 5:3 that, "We can rejoice too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance." this verse reminds me of the beginning of the book of James; in which James writes in chapter 1 verse 2-4, "Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow, So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing." these two verses both stress that through our trials and tribulations, our endurance can grow. both verses also remind us that throughout these trials and tribulations, we must rejoice and consider it great joy.

God shows His love for us by sending Jesus to die for us while we are still sinners. Jesus loves us when we don't even know Him. even if we hate Him. He still loves us and He still died for our sins. but we must believe in Him and have faith. this free gift of salvation because of the grace of God is truly the best gift of all. Romans 5:17, "... But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ." those who believe in Jesus triumph over sin and death.

believe in Jesus and have great faith.