July 26

2 Chronicles 17:1-18:34; Romans 9:22-10:13; Psalm 20:1-9; Proverbs 20:2-3

Don't you think it's interesting that Ahab, this pagan, godless king, who can't tell the difference between a false prophet and a true one, can tell the difference between a false prophecy from a true prophet and a true prophecy from a true prophet?  (See 2 Chr. 17:15.)  Even the false prophets themselves don't seem to know that they are false and deceived (see vs. 18-23), but somehow Ahab can tell when Micaiah is hedging the true word of the LORD.

Paul works out an argument, much like a lawyer, that continues in this theme.  The Jews don't know that they are deceived; they can't tell the difference between truth and falsehood.  They think that pursuing the law of righteousness is the answer (see Rom. 9:31, 10:2-3), though the Gentiles have obtained righteousness by simply receiving (9:30) through submission (10:3).

Hallelujah for the truth that there is "no difference between Jew and Gentile."  That latter category is me, but "the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him" (Rom. 10:12).  That's me, again!  "For, 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved'" (vs. 13).  That is me, too.  Incredible.

Lord, you are eternally and utterly good.  Let me receive your righteousness.  I call on your name.  Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, have mercy on me, a sinner.  Amen.

- Sarah Marsh

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