Excel Still More
The Excel Still More podcast is designed to help Christians excel in their faith, their relationships, and really every part of their lives. If you are interested in growth in your faith, this is the show for you. If you want to see yourself reach greater heights, achieve powerful spiritual goals, and be a better servant of Christ, we are here to help. Each episode introduces a proven principle for achieving more. Then we show how the Word of God amplifies the idea. Finally, each episode will leave you with at least one practical project so you can put these tools into action today!Thanks for joining! Live your best life in Christ, and in whatever you do: Excel Still More!
Excel Still More
Galatians 3 - Daily Bible Devotional
Galatians 3
The Galatians are being deceived into thinking they must follow the Law to be justified. Paul reminds them that they received the Spirit by faith, not by works. Paul uses Abraham as an example, showing that righteousness comes through faith, as God declared Abraham righteous before the Law existed. He explains that those who rely on the Law are under a curse because no one can perfectly keep it. However, Christ redeemed them from the curse by becoming a curse for them on the cross. The Law was given to reveal sin, but it cannot save. Paul emphasizes that God’s promise to Abraham is fulfilled in Christ, and through faith, all believers—Jew and Gentile—are united through baptism as children of God, clothed in Christ, and heirs to His promise.
Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. He obeyed God, not to earn His approval, but out of gratitude and trust in God’s power. We access God’s mercies by following in Abraham’s footsteps. We believe in God's promises and the redemption made possible through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. The law was given solely to illustrate the need for Christ, and we are freed from the bondage of the law to be united with Him. We are children of God through faith in Him, as we each choose to be baptized and clothed with Christ. We are one, regardless of our background, descendants of Abraham, sharing in the Messianic promise of blessings God made to him.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. Help us to trust in Your promises and not rely on our own efforts. Remind us that we are Your children, heirs of Your grace, and united in Christ. Strengthen our faith like Abraham, that we may walk in confidence and obedience to You. Fill us with the Holy Spirit, leading us to live in the freedom You have given us. Let our lives reflect Your love and truth, drawing others to Your gospel. May we all unite as one family in Your grace through Jesus.
Thought Questions:
- “Did you receive the Spirit by works of the Law, or by hearing with faith?” Why is this question still significant for you as a Christian?
- What does it mean to live by the faith of Abraham? What must you believe about God in order for your obedience to have any value?
- Is it necessary to be baptized into Christ to be clothed in His grace? (v27). What do we become to one another once we are clothed with Christ?