Our Power Source

Paul knew the source of his power: “For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith'” (Romans 1:17). From beginning to end, from Old Testament to New Testament, it is always the same—the righteous will live by faith. In fact, Paul is quoting from Habakkuk 2:4: “the righteous person will live by his faithfulness . . .” Our faith is exercised in the past, present, and future.

In the past, you exercised faith the moment you put your trust in the Lord Jesus Christ—you are saved from hell to heaven. And today, you are putting your trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, knowing that He is providing for your needs, strengthening you against sin, empowering you to have victory, and giving you wisdom for each day. Your faith also focuses on the future. You know that the moment you check out of this earth, you are going to check in with Jesus. So from the beginning to the middle to the end, salvation is a work of God’s grace—a gift of faith—and we just receive it (see Ephesians 2:8). It’s handed to us. What a privilege and joy! How can we stay quiet about such a love?

Are you ashamed of the Gospel? Do you get quiet when someone tells you it is bigoted to say Jesus is the only way to heaven? Do you get intimidated when someone tells you that it is narrow-minded to believe that there is no salvation from hell other than Jesus Christ? Remember your power source—and move ahead in obedience and faith, trusting God to see you through.

Prayer: God, help me remember that You are the source of my power. Give me courage and boldness to lovingly stand for Gospel Truth. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.