Click this link to hear an audio version of the below text narrated by SOTH member Al Campbell
Romans 10:11-17 (NIV)
11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” 12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, 13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” 14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” 16 But not all the Israelites accepted the good news. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our message?” 17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.
When a baby is born a word is used to “name” her, like Sarah (the Hebrew word for “princess”). She didn’t choose or earn it, but soon she learns that when people say “Sarah” they are referring to her and she responds. Salvation is a lot like being named. We do not choose it or earn it. Instead, we hear it and respond to it. As Paul says, “Faith comes from hearing”. But Paul is not talking about hearing an inner, spiritual voice. Names come from someone “outside” of us, like a parent. Similarly, the good news that we are saved by Jesus comes from “outside” of us. As you pray, think about those in your life that told you about Jesus. Thank God that they shared the good news that He loves you, saved you, and gives you new life. Finally, like a child responding to their name, ask God to help you respond in faith, to love others sacrificially and to share the Gospel.