The rose that glows in the fog
Today’s Bible Reading:
Genesis 34; Mark 5; Job1; Romans 5: Proverbs 2
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” So begins Romans 5 and then it goes on speak of the grace by which we stand and that we exult in hope of the glory of God.
That word “exult” means to “leap for joy” “to be extremely joyful” according to Webster’s dictionary. When we consider the hope of the glory of God that should be our attitude-I can handle that. But then comes Romans 5:3: “And not only this, but we exult in our tribulations.” Surely you’re joking! Leaping for joy when I am suffering is not my usual reaction. So why should that be the response of a follower of Jesus Christ. Well, the author continues, “but we exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Ah, now there is something I can exult in! Hope-and not just any hope, but that which is a result of God’s love being poured out within us. And because I have been given the Holy Spirit I can be assured that those tribulations will bring perseverance, proven character, and hope, as God continues to mold me into the image of His precious Son. The process might not be pleasant at times (I just started reading Job today…) but for the end of it all-the glory of God-I will strive no matter what tomorrow brings-I will press on towards the goal of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14)
Grace, peace, and mercy,
Debra
Genesis 34; Mark 5; Job1; Romans 5: Proverbs 2
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” So begins Romans 5 and then it goes on speak of the grace by which we stand and that we exult in hope of the glory of God.
That word “exult” means to “leap for joy” “to be extremely joyful” according to Webster’s dictionary. When we consider the hope of the glory of God that should be our attitude-I can handle that. But then comes Romans 5:3: “And not only this, but we exult in our tribulations.” Surely you’re joking! Leaping for joy when I am suffering is not my usual reaction. So why should that be the response of a follower of Jesus Christ. Well, the author continues, “but we exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Ah, now there is something I can exult in! Hope-and not just any hope, but that which is a result of God’s love being poured out within us. And because I have been given the Holy Spirit I can be assured that those tribulations will bring perseverance, proven character, and hope, as God continues to mold me into the image of His precious Son. The process might not be pleasant at times (I just started reading Job today…) but for the end of it all-the glory of God-I will strive no matter what tomorrow brings-I will press on towards the goal of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14)
Grace, peace, and mercy,
Debra
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