May 23, 2017: SOAP #2728: 2Chronicles 6, 7; Psalm 135; Romans 4

Scripture:  Romans (NIV) 4:2 If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God.  3 What does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”

Observation:     Had it been possible for Abraham to have worked hard enough to stand before God completely righteous, then he would indeed have something about which to boast.  He would have been able to do what no man had ever before, or has ever since been able to do.  Ever since sin entered the picture it has been impossible for man to stand by himself before God.  The very best we can offer is like dirty rag in comparison to God’s perfect holiness.

God judges perfectly and knows how far short our works come in purchasing the righteousness needed to stand before a holy God.  Abraham may have impressed people, but he would have never been able to boast before God!

Application:  I am totally dependent on the righteousness God has provided for me through Jesus’ death on the cross.  What grace!   I have no reason to boast, but every reason to humbly dedicate my life to please Him!  How amazing the depths of God’s love for man!

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, my life is yours!  You provided for me what I could never provide for myself—righteousness that meets your standard! Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!