Today we continue to learn about the descendants of Abraham who are of his lineage through faith.  Remember, that righteousness was counted to Abraham prior to his circumcision.  In the same manner, anyone who places his/her faith in the promise of God will be counted as righteous, whether they have sought to keep the law or not, because the law only brings condemnation.

This passage speaks of the promise of God which was given to Abraham.  Abraham’s faith was not simply in the promise itself but in the God who had made it.  Because Abraham had put his trust in the God who made the promise, he believed that the promise would be fulfilled.  The same is true for us today.  We have so much more information concerning the promise that Abraham may not have had detailed knowledge of (though we know Jesus said that Abraham looked forward to His day).  However, in the same manner as Abraham, our faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is made substantive because of the God who has the power to forgive sins, grant righteousness and justify us.  So Paul tells us today that righteousness will be counted to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus from the dead, who was delivered up for our transgressions and risen for our justification.  If God is not who He says He is, than the events of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection do not hold the power that His Word says it does.  But, He is…so believe in Him.  Believe in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus our Lord, putting your faith in God, who is able to count you righteous.  Be encouraged also.  God, who is able to grant you righteousness has also promised to complete the work He has started in you when Jesus comes again (Philippians 1:6).