Romans 8:18–30 (NKJV)
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; 21 because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. 23 Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. 24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.
Romans 8:18-25
Paul transitions from the talk of death and life in the last passage to a bold, faith-filled statement that the sufferings of this time are not to be compared to the glory which shall be revealed. The basic idea of the rest of the story revolves around redemption. Creation waits for redemption. Sinners need redemption. Christians even long for the eternal redemption that is to come. However, we hope for something that we cannot see. Faith is believing what is not yet reality, not yet seen. Creation groans as in birth pains, but the redemption is yet to come. Faith, however, causes one to be eager for that which is not yet seen, cause one to persevere and continue on the path, no matter how difficult the path may be.
26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Romans 8:26-30
28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
In this faith journey, we are not alone. The Spirit helps us when we are weak. When we don’t know what to say in prayer, He will make intercessions for us in the Spirit. He will pray for the perfect will of God, because He is one with God in the Trinity. In this journey on which we travel, there will be hardships and trouble. But all the things we experience, all the trials, will result in good for the faith-filled believer. God is not surprised by anything that comes our way. He knew before it happened, and already has a plan in place. Some of what we experience comes directly from God, and is also part of His plan. The plan of God is leading us to salvation, which will eventually lead to the glory of Heaven if we continue to follow Christ. Don’t curse the dark days, the bad days, the weak days. Instead, see them as leading to the next phase of the plan of God for your life. Enjoy the bright, joyous, glorious days, too, for they give you a glimpse of the glory which will come. All things, good and bad, lead to glory. Don’t let either distract you, but instead let them lead you to faith beyond yourself.
Artwork from https://www.pinterest.com/pin/512354895091979649/?autologin=true
Devoted To You 