"And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness." --Genesis 15:6.
Notice that Abram's only claim to righteousness was belief. God's plan has always been the same, and it won't change (Heb. 13:8). We are sinful beings that have only ONE hope of salvation, and that is our belief in Jesus Christ. In addition, notice how this comes BEFORE the circumcision or even the birth of Isaac? This shows that God's blessings come AFTER belief. Too many of us expect to see the blessings so we can believe, but that is NOT faith (Heb. 11:6). Also notice that Ishmael is conceived shortly after this, illustrating that it is still possible for believers to sin even after they are saved, AND that God will not stop working in a believer's life just because of one mistake. Salvation has always been by faith, and it always will be. There is nothing we can do for ourselves; it must be given to us (Eph. 2:8-9). Are you relying on faith or works?
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References used in order:
"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." --Hebrews 13:8.
"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." --Hebrews 11:6.
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast." --Ephesians 2:8-9.
