Monday, 29 July 2013
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31
In Romans 8:31, Paul takes what has been stated thus far concerning the work of Christ and how it relates to us and he turns it around into a series of six questions. Why would he do this? What is it about questions that refocus our attention? When you are presented with a question, do you evaluate it as a tool to get you to think on what has already been submitted? Are you ready for me to stop asking questions?…
Paul’s first question encompasses the entire discourse of chapter 8. “What then shall we say to these things?” Review what has been stated, think on it, and resolve to align your thoughts about Christ with what you have read. I am free from the law of sin and death. Is this salvation eternal? Am I truly a son of God through adoption? Yes! I received the Spirit of adoption, I was predestined and called, and I accepted the call. Now I stand justified and even glorified because of this. Because of all that has been stated, “What then shall we say to these things?”
The answer is a resounding note of the victory found in Christ… “If God is for us, who can be against us?” There isn’t enough ink in the world to type the number of exclamation points which should follow this thought! It is a truth we can stand on when the forces of sin and wickedness come against us. When our hearts are weighed down, we can meditate on this verse and others like it and receive strength to continue on –
The Lord is on my side; I will not fear.
What can man do to me?
…
All nations surrounded me,
But in the name of the Lord I will destroy them.
Psalm 118:6 & 10
Life application: If you have received Jesus as Lord, God is in fact “for” you. As He is the owner of eternity and possessor of your soul, then nothing else can truly harm you. Stand fast in this fact and be comforted in the power of God which is now on your side.
Lord, there are certain times that I need reassurance that You are there. When those times come, all I need to do is open Your word and read the marvelous truths which are contained in it. Because of Jesus, You are on my side. No power can take me from Your grasp, no fear will consume me, no heartache will overcome me. Instead, I have my confidence and hope in You! Amen.