Even when there was no reason for hope, 

Abraham kept hoping—

believing…

…In fact, 

his faith grew stronger, 

and in this he brought glory to God. 

He was fully convinced that God is able 

to do whatever he promises. 

And because of Abraham’s faith, 

God counted him as righteous. 

…God will also count us as righteous 

if we believe in him, 

the one who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 

Romans 4:18, 20-22, 24