07/02/2021 - JUSTICE WAS ACCOUNTED TO THE REDEEMED

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How then was it accounted? While he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised, but while uncircumcised. Romans 4.10

The Holy Spirit’s wisdom in using Paul to speak of the value of acts accounted as righteousness is due to what happens to whoever gets this blessing. Abraham, quoted by the apostle, trusted in God and, for that reason, was chosen to start the generation of the just, culminating in the coming of Jesus, the Just. The divine plan was partially revealed to the patriarch – perhaps so that he would not act out of self-interest. Those called by God must answer Him only by faith.

Every time we listen to the Word, being obedient to a direction from the Lord, we are rewarded with the record of that action. Then, the justice represented by such conduct is credited in favor of those who practiced it. Receiving Jesus as Savior is the most important decision anyone can make, as one becomes God’s righteousness in Christ.

According to the Messiah, it will be rewarded even to those who give a simple glass of cold water – a small message to calm a heart – to one of His disciples (Mt 10:42). This water – which is the instruction – will reassure the afflicted. Thus, he will see the solution to his adversity. Therefore, we must know which biblical passage to use in each situation and, when seeing a person in trouble, quote it. The Lord keeps His promises!

Helping those in need is like doing something for the Lord Himself. At Christ’s return, humanity will be placed in two groups before the Savior. He will invite the one on His right to enter and possess the Kingdom prepared since the foundation of the world, but the one on His left will be sent to the lake of fire, because he did not do good to Him represented by those who are His. (Mt 25: 35-46).

Never miss an opportunity to act like the Samaritan (Lk 10.33). As he walked, he saw a man badly injured after being ransacked and assaulted by thieves. Unlike the priest and the Levite who passed by and avoided, this foreigner had compassion on that guy, took him to an inn and took care of him. Then, having to leave, he left an amount with the owner of the establishment, in order to continue the care. The Samaritan took the chance to do good!

Although he was still uncircumcised, Abraham was seeking God. For this reason, he was called to create a new people, bringing blessings to humanity and becoming the father of those who believe. He only received this part of the revelation after leaving his homeland, his friends and relatives, and going to a place that flowed with milk and honey. His obedience was account as justice and, in the end, after being called a friend of God, Abraham was received in Glory.

Try to present yourself approved to the Almighty, by keeping His commandments. Then, you will be accepted as someone who walked with Him. For many are called, but few are chosen (Mt 22.14). Whoever leaves home, goods and many other things for the Lord’s sake and His work, will reign forever with the King of kings. To Him be all the honor!

In Christ with love,

R. R. Soares