Embracing the Obstacle: The Benefits of Being In Christ
Life is full of ups and downs. We all face obstacles, challenges, and difficult seasons. But as believers, we can have confidence that God will use everything for our good and His glory. We'll explore how God uses the obstacles in life to strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Him.
We will explore how God uses obstacles to strengthen our faith and shape us into resilient individuals. Through trials, we discover our reliance on Him and the transformative power of His grace. Let's embrace hurdles as stepping stones on our journey to a deeper relationship with our Creator.
We CAN Overcome
Earthly Struggles Are Temporary, But Heaven Is Eternal.
Overcoming Suffering with Eternal Perspective
In Romans 8:18, the apostle Paul writes, "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." Paul reminds us that no matter what we are going through, it pales in comparison to the eternal glory that awaits believers in heaven.
Earthly struggles are temporary, but heaven is eternal. We can endure and overcome present sufferings because our hope is firmly rooted in the world to come. Don't lose sight of heaven amid your storm!
Paul goes on to describe how all of creation groans and suffers like the pains of childbirth. But one day, creation will be delivered and renewed completely (Romans 8:21-22). Until then, we persevere knowing that the best is yet to come for those who love God.
Accessing God's Help through Prayer
A key way believers can navigate obstacles is through prayer. In Romans 8:26-27, Paul explains how the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness and intercedes for us when we don't know how to pray. What an incredible privilege! We have supernatural help available in our toughest moments.
Paul reminds us that God did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. Therefore, we can be certain that God will also graciously provide for all our needs (Romans 8:32).
We can come boldly and confidently to God in prayer, even with our biggest requests, knowing that he cares and provides. Don't hesitate to bring everything to God in prayer!
Standing Firm in God's Love
One of the most profound truths in all of Scripture is Romans 8:28 - "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God." God uses both blessings and trials to ultimately work for our growth and good. We may not understand how in the moment, but we can trust God's perfect plan.
Paul then asks rhetorically in Romans 8:35-39 if anything can separate us from the love of God - troubles, distress, persecution, famine, danger or sword. "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." What beautiful assurance that nothing can snatch us from God's hand or separate us from his love!
So, in the trials of life, we can say: This is temporary. God will work it for my good. His love will bring me through.
Extend Grace
We Are Called To Care Deeply For Those Who Don’t Know God Yet.
Extending Grace to Others
As Paul continues his letter to the Romans, he explains in Chapter 9 how God has extended salvation not only to the Jews but also to the Gentiles. This was a radical, unexpected concept for the original Jewish audience! But we know that God "desires all men to be saved" (1 Timothy 2:4).
As believers, we are called to have the same heart as Paul - to care deeply for those who don't yet know God (Romans 9:1-5). We should look for opportunities to share the Good News with others, whether family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, or strangers God puts in our path.
We must have good news before we can share the Good News. The best way to reach people is through genuine love, compassion, and care for who they are. As we listen, meet practical needs, and build relationships, God opens doors to have spiritual conversations.
Will you implore God to soften your heart for those who are lost and allow yourself to be an instrument of His grace today?
Surrender and Pray
“God, Help Me Be Pliable, Like Clay In Your Hands”
Surrendering to the Potter's Hands
At times, God's plans can seem confusing or contrary to what we expect. But Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God's ways are higher than our ways. Romans 9:20-21 compares God to a Potter who has every right to use the clay (us).
When life doesn't make sense, we can surrender and pray:
God, I don't understand what you're doing right now, but I trust you. I know you love me, and your plans are good. Do what only you can do in my life. Help me to be pliable like clay in Your hands.
God knows what He is doing. He sees the full picture. He will be glorified through your life when you surrender to His will and trust Him fully. No matter how you may feel today, know that victory is coming!
God promises beauty from ashes, joy from mourning, and purpose from pain. Keep persevering!
Unleashing Timeless Wisdom
Drawing inspiration from our study of Romans, we are reminded of the timeless relevance of Paul's letter to the believers in Rome. The principles he imparted continue to resonate with us in the present day.
Husbands and wives, are you loving and respecting each other daily? Parents, are you setting a godly example and having spiritual conversations with your children?
Make it a priority to invest in your family and "lead them in the ways of the Lord" as the Bible instructs. The people under your roof need your love, discipleship, and witness for Christ as much as anyone!
No matter what obstacles you face today, remember that you're not alone. God walks with you and will carry you through the valleys. Hold on to His truth, rely on His strength, and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus! There are brighter days ahead.
