In what ways can we strengthen our faith like Abraham in Romans 4? Abraham’s Pattern, Our Invitation Romans 4 presents Abraham as the prototype of saving faith. Verse 24 makes the bridge clear: “but also for us, to whom righteousness will be credited—for us who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.” The Holy Spirit holds up Abraham so that we might imitate him and see the same results—righteousness credited, faith strengthened. What Strengthened Abraham’s Faith • He fixed on God’s promise, not on his own power (Romans 4:19). • He kept giving glory to God before the promise was fulfilled (Romans 4:20). • He was “fully persuaded that God was able to do what He had promised” (Romans 4:21). • He trusted the God “who gives life to the dead and calls into being what does not yet exist” (Romans 4:17). Anchoring on the Resurrection • Our faith looks at the same God who raised Jesus (Romans 4:24). • The resurrection proves God’s power over the impossible (1 Corinthians 15:17, 20). • It assures that every promise tied to Christ will likewise stand (2 Corinthians 1:20). Everyday Practices That Grow Abraham-like Faith • Feed on God’s Word daily—faith “comes by hearing” (Romans 10:17). • Memorize and rehearse specific promises that speak to current struggles. • Thank God in advance, echoing Abraham’s glory-giving posture. • Choose worship over worry; sing, speak, and think truth (Psalm 42:5). • Surround yourself with believers who speak life, not doubt (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Keep a journal of answered prayer to remember how God has already “called into being” what didn’t exist. Rooted and Built Up Colossians 2:6-7 urges, “continue to walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him, established in the faith… overflowing with thankfulness.” Roots deepen in unseen soil before fruit appears. Quiet perseverance in Scripture, prayer, and obedience forms that unseen root system. Seeing Beyond Circumstances • Refuse to let visible facts override God’s declaration (2 Corinthians 4:18). • Pray Proverbs 3:5-6 back to God: trust, lean not, acknowledge, and watch Him direct. • When doubt whispers, answer with truth as Jesus did in the wilderness (Matthew 4). Living Out Credited Righteousness • Remember: righteousness is credited, not earned (Romans 4:5). • Live gratefully, not guiltily; serve because you are accepted, not to earn acceptance. • Let the gift of right standing embolden your prayers (Hebrews 4:16). Stepping Forward Today Abraham’s life shows that faith strengthens as we keep our eyes on the Promiser rather than the problem. Look to the empty tomb, cling to the living Christ, and watch Him turn promise into praise. |
    |