Bible Reading: Hebrews 11:1-8 KJV
- Hebrews 11:1 KJV
Like Grace that we explored in the last devotional, the role of Faith in salvation is also central to salvation. If Grace is a door leading to salvation, then Faith is the key that unlocks it. Hebrews 11:6 (KJV) tells us, "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." In this devotional, we will explore the role of Faith in salvation as described in the Bible.
Faith: The Belief in God's Promises
Faith is our belief in God's promises and the trust we place in him. In our Key Verse, Hebrews 11:1 (KJV), we read: "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." This passage emphasizes the importance of Faith and our trust in God. It is through Faith that we are able to have confidence in God's promises and trust in his plan for our lives. Faith is the means by which we receive the grace of God and the catalyst for our works.
Faith: In The Old Testament
Even in the Old Testament Faith was needed for salvation. Abraham is a central figure in the Bible, and his faith is often cited as an example for believers to follow. We clearly see Abraham's Faith in God's promises in Genesis 15:6 (KJV), "And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness."
This passage describes the moment when Abraham believed in God's promises and was counted as righteous. His faith was not based on works or any merit of his own, but solely on his belief in God's promises.
Similarly in Romans 4:1-5 (KJV), we read about Abraham's faith being credited to him as righteousness, "What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness."
This passage highlights the importance of faith in our salvation. Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness, not because of any works he had done, but because of his belief in God's promises. This passage also emphasizes that our salvation is not based on our own efforts, but on our faith in God's grace.
Conclusion
The role of faith in salvation is intertwined and interdependent with Grace. Grace is the unmerited favor of God, while Faith is our belief in God's promises. Together, these two elements work together to bring about our salvation. As we continue to explore the roles of grace, faith, and works in salvation, we will look at Works next.
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