Genesis 15 Devotional

Counted Righteous by Faith

“Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”Genesis 15:6 (BSB)

Abram has waited years since God's first promise, and he still has no son. When God tells him not to be afraid, because God himself is his shield and his great reward (15:1), Abram answers honestly that the only heir he can see is his servant Eliezer. God takes him outside, tells him to count the stars if he can, and promises that his offspring will be just as many. Abram believes the LORD, and God credits it to him as righteousness (15:6).

Then God confirms his promise in a strange and solemn ceremony. Animals are cut in two, and after dark a smoking firepot and a flaming torch pass between the pieces (15:17). Only God passes through. The covenant rests on him alone (15:18). Paul says this verse was written not only for Abraham but also for us, who believe in the God who raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 4:23-24). Being right with God is received, not achieved, and it rests on his promise.

To think about: What would change in your day if you believed your standing with God is a gift and not a wage?