Friday, January 31’s devotional. Romans 4:23-25 declares, “Now it was credited to him was not written for Abraham alone, but also for us. It will be credited to us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. He was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.” Mark Penrith reminds us that just as Abraham was justified by faith, we too are declared righteous when we trust in Jesus’ finished work.
Abraham believed God, and righteousness was credited to him. This is the same pattern for us—righteousness comes by faith in Christ, not by works. Salvation is not something we earn; it is a gift given to all who trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection.
The cross is central to our justification. Paul writes that Jesus “was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.” Mark emphasizes, “Jesus died as a substitute, in our place, the righteous for the unrighteous. His resurrection was proof that His sacrifice was accepted, and it guarantees our right standing before God.” Because Christ was raised, those who believe in Him are made right with God.
This truth aligns with Benoni Baptist Church’s statement of belief: “Righteousness is credited to those who have confident faith in God’s promise fulfilled in Jesus.” We are not justified by our own righteousness but by Christ’s. When we place our faith in Him, we stand before God clothed in His perfect righteousness.
Have you placed your full confidence in Christ for your salvation? Mark urges, “Stop striving to earn God’s favor. Trust that Christ’s finished work is enough. When tempted by guilt or pride, remember this: God’s promise rests on His grace, not your efforts.”
Reflection: Have you placed your full confidence in Christ for your salvation? Are you trusting in His finished work, or are you still trying to earn righteousness on your own?
Application: Reflect on the significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Spend time thanking Him for the righteousness He has credited to you.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the gift of righteousness through faith in Christ. Help me to trust fully in His finished work and rest in Your grace. Amen.
This devotional content is not penned by the preacher. It is derived from the sermon notes. We aim to provide bite-sized reflections throughout the week for devotion and reflection.