Audio commentary on this verse

Note 10 at Rom. 4:20: From the context of this statement, we can see that the unbelief that Abraham refused to consider was the unbelief that would have come through thinking on the natural facts (see note 9 at v. 19). Many people don't perceive facts as generating unbelief. We have been led to believe that we have to consider all the facts to make a proper decision, but that's not so with God's Word.

When we have clear direction from God's Word, we shouldn't consider anything else. Considering "facts" contrary to God's promises will make us stagger in our faith.

Note 11 at Rom. 4:20: Jesus had equated praise with strength (see note 3 at Mt. 21:14, p. 423). Here we see that this is one thing that made Abraham strong in faith. Praise keeps our minds stayed on God and what He is doing. You cannot praise God and keep your mind on the problem. You will fall into complaining every time. This is why praise makes us strong in faith (see note 9 at v. 19, above).

Note 12 at Rom. 4:20: A person who believes the promises of God brings glory to God. Conversely, a person who disbelieves the promises of God dishonors God.