TO BE GIVEN THROUGH FAITH
“But Scripture has locked up everything under the control of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe.” Galatians 3:22 NIV
We humans naturally enjoy promises, blessings, favor, and assurance.
But in our theme scripture, Paul insists on the priority of wrestling with our condition. God’s Word first shows us not who we pretend to be, but who we are apart from Christ. We were not merely inadequate; we were captive to sin’s power and penalty. Left to ourselves, we would only circle deeper into bondage.
Before grace can be given, the law must do its work. Paul tells us that Scripture has “confined all under sin.” The word confined carries the sense of being held captive with no escape, no loophole, no righteousness of our own that can set us free.
Child of God, often the hardest work of grace is not in believing for the first time, but in believing again—trusting that the One who saved us still saves us. When Scripture shows you more of your sin, cling all the closer to your Savior. Let the law do its condemning work so that the promise can do its liberating work.
Prayer: My Father, I thank you for this truth. Open my eyes to see what Scripture reveals, not to condemn me, but to lead me to you. Show me daily ways that my sin imprisons me so that your promise might save me. Keep me clinging to you alone, in your mercy. Teach me to receive your promises by faith, trusting that what you have given through faith you will also complete in me, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• Romans 3:19-20
• Romans 7:7
• Psalm 143:2
