The Just Shall Live by Faith

The Just Shall Live by Faith

When we think about this scripture, we think mostly about its spiritual significance. Of course, for us it has its most profound meaning in that sense, for God’s Word works effectively in those who believe. 1 Thess. 2:13. If we take note of the thousands who call themselves believers, and how little effect God’s Word has in their lives, we also realize how few of them have a living faith. It is a living faith that results in works. By faith we partake of divine nature—by the exceedingly great and precious promises. By faith the virtues of Christ come alive and increase, and we become fruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Pet. 1. The virtues cause fellowship to increase so that we become one as the Father and the Son are one. We do not believe if this does not occur. Jas. 2:26.

However, this scripture, “The just shall live by faith,” is particularly concerned with earthly things: their goods were plundered, they were thrown into prison, etc., and they were joyful in all these circumstances. Joy is the evidence that they lived by faith, and the apostle pleads with them to remember those days, for now they had become dull of hearing. He reminds them of Israel who could not enter the Promised Land, for the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. Heb. 4:2.

In our country the risk of being thrown into prison or that our goods will be plundered because we are believers is not great; nevertheless, our faith is sorely tried in matters that pertain to earthly circumstances.

Jesus says, “And because unrighteousness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end will be saved.” Matt. 24:12-13.

In our days it is plain to see that unrighteousness and lying are increasing at an alarming rate. Consequently, it is difficult for a righteous person to make a living if he has to use his human reasoning. The unrighteous lie and cheat the authorities and their neighbors in order to earn money, whether he is an employer or an employee. But when you are righteous and cannot go along with them, you will be pushed aside. The employer cannot use you, and the employees do not want to work together with you. Humanly speaking, for many it is almost impossible to be righteous in all things. But this word applies here as well: “The just shall live by faith.” “That we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Rom. 15:4.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you”—namely, the things that the Gentiles seek. Matt. 6:31-34.

“Let your conduct be without covetousness, and be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” Heb. 13:5-6.

James exhorts us to establish our hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Ch. 5:7-11. Instead of our love growing cold, we can live by faith, so that our love can become warmer. We live by faith; therefore we do not need to be unequally yoked together with unbelievers! We have no part with an unbeliever. The Lord will receive us if we do not touch anything that is unclean. He will be our Father, and we will be His sons and daughters, says the Lord, the Almighty. “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Cor. 6:14, 7:1.