Relying on God

Israel seemed to misunderstand their relationship with God. They had forgotten that their forefather, Abraham, did not earn His blessings. He had been chosen by God, but still was a flawed person, who made mistakes. In reality, his relationship with God was based on faith.

Drawing on the Old Testament, Paul reminded the Romans that Abraham “believed the Lord.” And that He “counted him as righteous because of his faith” (Genesis 15:6).

But in the following years, Israel focused on “keeping the law.” They continued to act as though they needed to earn His blessing. But this “never succeeded,” and became something “they stumbled over.”

This pattern can be a stumbling block for us. We, too, can assume that we earn God’s blessings. We can forget the importance of faith, that we owe everything to Him, no matter how long we have been Christians, what other people think, or our accomplishments. Every day, in every situation we face, we need to rely on faith.

The Bible reminds us that God works through people who have faith. These are people who, just like Abraham, may be flawed, but who believe and put their faith into action. Who make faith the foundation of their lives.

Abraham demonstrated his faith when “God called him to leave home and go to another land.” He went by faith “without knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8).

In your life, seek to walk by faith. Make a commitment to follow God. To believe His Word. Be ready to step out in obedience, trusting Him. Living by faith, in every situation.