“In hope against hope, he believed…” (Romans 4:18)
In describing the faith of Abraham, the book of Romans says that Abraham was a man who hoped even when hope seemed impossible. He hoped to be a father of many nations even when he was a childless old man married to a woman long past childbearing age. His hope wasn’t rooted in the statistics or the data. His hope was rooted in the promises he had received from the God who He trusted.
Hope and faith are intrinsically tied together. If you want faith like Abraham, you must hope like Abraham. As Hebrews said, Abraham left his home country with a view to a lasting city (see Hebrews 11:10). May your hope remain unwavering like Abraham’s.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Romans 4:13-25
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision