What then are we to say was gained by Abraham, our ancestor according to the flesh? 2 For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. 3 For what does the scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness.” 4 Now to one who works, wages are not reckoned as a gift but as something due. 5 But to one who without works trusts him who justifies the ungodly, such faith is reckoned as righteousness.

Romans 4:1-5

I had an interesting conversation recently about the role of works and the role of faith. God does it all. That is a true statement. We do something too is equally true. Or as Augustine once is quoted as saying, “Without God, we cannot. Without us, God will not.

For instance, praying for healing and not going to a doctor makes no sense to me. For God’s healing may very well be accomplished by the gifts of a medical professional. In that case, God does and we do too. Did God answer the prayer for our healing if we got better after seeing a doctor? I would emphatically say yes. Who do you think gave the gifts to the physician and all of those who practice modern medicine? In addition, did we make the appointment, get in the car, and take the steps offered? That is true too. All God. Us too.

One of the best definitions for wisdom that I have come across is this: “Knowing God’s will and having the ability to do it.” One part God. A second part us. All of it depending on God. Credit completely due him. And we become instruments, or tools, to accomplish the work.

Have you ever felt like you weren’t doing enough? Me too. Maybe it was a time when we refused to act upon what we knew was right and good.

Have you ever tried to do too much? Me too. And maybe then we tried to force something instead of waiting on God’s timing or God’s way.

For Lent, when we take up or give up something to seek God’s face, it is helpful to remember that it is God’s face that will make the difference and not our striving. It is also helpful to remember that God is ready to use our efforts.

Our great challenge is to keep remembering who is ultimately in charge!