Text: Romans 4:1-12
A major concern in the book of Romans is how a person is accepted by God as being right in His sight. Apostle Paul frequently states that a life of law obedience cannot make a person righteous (e.g., Rom.3:19-20).
Because we are by nature anti-God (Eph.4:22), it is not possible for us to please God, nor can our works be acceptable to Him. Therefore, the only way to be accepted as righteous by God is if He gives it to us, as a gift of His grace (Rom.5:17b). The way we receive God’s grace is by faith, by trusting His gift. But, since faith in God is also not natural to us, God must also give us faith (Eph.2:8). So, salvation from start to eternity is entirely the work of God. All of this is because of the righteous work of Jesus Christ for His people.
When we receive God’s gift of righteousness and of faith, etc., we become new creatures (2 Cor.5:17), and we are expected to live a new life that is pleasing to God (Eph.4:17). This new life does not contribute to the gift from God (then it would not be a gift). Our new life in Christ is a life of loving, grateful obedience to Him. The new life impacts every part of life (thoughts, affections, words, deeds), including employment. You must no longer do your job as others do.
You must work as someone who belongs to God’s grace in Christ. You must do your work as worship.
Meditate on verse 5. What is God teaching you in this verse?
Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, thank You that through faith,
not works, You have given me the righteousness. Amen.