How can we apply Abraham's faith in God's promises to our daily lives? Standing on Romans 4:17 “As it is written: ‘I have made you a father of many nations.’ He is our father in the presence of God, in whom he believed— the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being what does not yet exist.” Seeing Who God Is • He gives life to the dead (John 11:25; Ephesians 2:4-5) • He calls things that are not as though they are (Genesis 1:3; Isaiah 55:11) • His character guarantees His promises (Hebrews 6:17-18) Daily application: start every day by declaring aloud one promise from Scripture, anchoring faith in His unchanging nature rather than shifting circumstances. Trusting Beyond the Visible • Abraham believed while Sarah’s womb was barren (Genesis 18:11-14) • Faith welcomes the unseen reality (2 Corinthians 4:18; Hebrews 11:1) • God’s track record invites today’s trust (Psalm 77:11-12) Daily application: when needs arise—finances, health, relationships—speak, “My Father is able” (Ephesians 3:20), and refuse to let visible lack define outlook. Acting on the Promise • Abraham left Ur (Genesis 12:1-4) and later offered Isaac (Genesis 22:1-14) • Genuine faith produces obedience (James 2:21-23) • Each small step strengthens spiritual muscles (Luke 16:10) Daily application: identify one practical step that aligns with God’s Word—repay a debt, reconcile with someone, serve at church—and do it, trusting results to Him. Holding Fast During Delay • Abraham waited about twenty-five years for Isaac (Genesis 21:5) • Delay refines faith, not nullifies promise (Romans 4:20-21) • Hope anchored in God never disappoints (Romans 5:5) Daily application: keep a written record of God’s past faithfulness; review it whenever waiting feels heavy. Speaking Life Over Dead Situations • God “calls into being what does not yet exist” (Romans 4:17) • Our words align with His creative power (Proverbs 18:21; Mark 11:23) • Confession reinforces conviction (2 Corinthians 4:13) Daily application: replace negative self-talk with Scripture—“All the promises of God are ‘Yes’ in Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:20). Encouraging Fellow Believers • Abraham became a blessing to nations (Genesis 12:2-3) • Testimonies build collective faith (Revelation 12:11) • Mutual encouragement sustains perseverance (Hebrews 10:24-25) Daily application: share one recent answer to prayer with another believer, reminding both hearts that the God of Abraham still keeps His word. |