DAY 170 – ABRAHAM WAS JUSTIFIED BEFORE CIRCUMCISION

By Pastor Wilberforce Bezudde

“Does this blessedness then come upon the circumcised only, or upon the uncircumcised also? For we say that faith was accounted to Abraham for righteousness. How then was it accounted? While he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised, but while uncircumcised. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while still uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all those who believe, though they are uncircumcised, that righteousness might be imputed to them also, and the father of circumcision to those who not only are of the circumcision, but who also walk in the steps of the faith which our father Abraham had while still uncircumcised.” (Romans 4:9-12)

The circumcised refers to the Jews – it was a sign showing that one belongs to God’s family. The uncircumcised refers to Gentiles who did not belong to the family of God. Paul uses Abraham’s life to demonstrate that the free gift of salvation is NOT received by PHYSICAL SIGNS or RITUALS.

The ritual of circumcision did not earn Abraham his acceptance by God; he had been blessed long before the circumcision ceremony was introduced. God called Abraham when he was 75 years old; the circumcision ceremony was introduced when he was 99. Abraham found favour with God by faith alone. You too can receive favour, not because of the good things you do or have done, but because of faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ. You do not have to perform – just believe and receive. Jesus is Lord!

Today’s Prayer
Dear Lord Jesus,
I believe in Your finished work and receive all the blessings of Abraham. I find favour with You, by faith alone. Thank You, for the impact of Your word. Today, I stop performing and I start believing in what You have already done. I am accepted by God and blessed. I walk in miracles, power, and the favour of God. Dear Holy Spirit help me to walk in this truth today and always. Amen.