Today’s reading is Romans 4
“For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.” Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness,”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭4:2-5‬ ‭ESV‬‬

http://bible.com/59/rom.4.2-5.esv
All,
This stands out because Paul says, “Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due.” Does God owe us anything? Are we entitled to a certain lifestyle, wealth, friends, etc. if we go do certain works? This is always a tight rope for most of us. It’s tough to not get legalistic with our relationship occasionally. However, once I come to my senses and remember it’s ALL a gift, life is peaceful. I feel closest to God when I’m living in a state of gratefulness for ALL things because of what HE did as opposed to anything I did. Please pray that we and our friends are thankful for what Christ did for us as we celebrate His birth this week. Please pray for women in the Beloved house.