Living by Faith: Justification by faith

Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.
- Habakkuk 2:4

In the book of Romans, Paul quotes from this very same Old Testament verse, however, here in the book of Habakkuk, we are given a contrast between the faithful life and the faithless. He whose soul is lifted up, who trusts in himself is not upright, but he whose life is directed by trust in God, and that alone is just and upright.

The Bible defines faith as the hope of things not seen and the evidence of things hoped for; walking by faith and not by sight - it is, simply, seeing as God sees.

In the book of Hebrews, we are given the experiences of the patriarchs and pilgrims of old; Abel, Abraham, Noah, Moses and others. It is written, ‘by faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.’

Faith is essential in every Christian’s life, it is by faith that we have an audience with the Most High; it is by faith that we have a relationship with the unseen God, who is immortal and invisible. By faith all things are possible.

Indeed, it is by faith in the news of Christ’s crucifixion, burial and resurrection that we are justified. The just live by trusting in the gospel of Christ for their salvation, for it is in the gospel that the righteousness of God is revealed. When complete surrender is given and trust is put in the sacrifice of Christ, we see the justice and mercy of God. Before man and the unfallen worlds is displayed God’s ability to be just and uphold His eternal Law by not seeing sin’s penalty be paid. Yet He is still merciful and sends His only, begotten Son, the express image of His likeness, the fullness of His glory, to be the captain of our salvation through suffering.

But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.


But for us also, to whom it (righteousness) shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. - Romans 4:24-25
LiFE Ministries Team

All Bible verses are taken from the King James Version 1611. -
Habakkuk 2:4
Hebrews 11:5-6

Next Week: Living by Faith (Righteousness by Faith)