Friday, September 18, 2026

Scripture

“For if the inheritance comes from the law, it no longer comes from the promise; but God granted it to Abraham through the promise.” Galatians 3:18

Reflections

Our hope of inheriting eternal life does not come from our attempts to be good people.  It does not come from flawlessly observing the Ten Commandments.  It comes from the promises of God.

In the book of Genesis, we find the Lord God promising to bless Abraham and his descendants.  The Apostle Paul in Galatians likens that to a person’s last will and testament.  Once a will is made, no one adds to it or annuls it.  It is unwavering.  It is trustworthy.  As Christians, we see it come to ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.  He is the One who was raised from the dead, a sign of our ultimate hope.

Some think that eternal hope is only for those who are “good enough”.  Such thinking shifts the focus from God’s promise to the Ten Commandments.  But the Ten Commandments will never grant life and salvation.  It will always leave us condemned.

The promise came first and will never be nullified.  Abraham received the promise four hundred thirty years prior to Moses receiving the Law.  Without even knowing the Law, Abraham had the promise.

God is true to his promises.  We have life and hope.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for being true to your promises.  Keep my focus on your promises.  Strengthen me in your ways through your Spirit.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Galatians 3:15-18