My Hope is Solely in Christ
Scripture Passage: Romans 5:1-11 (NASB)
1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we also have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we celebrate in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 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.
6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will hardly die for a righteous person; though perhaps for the good person someone would even dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. 11 And not only this, but we also celebrate in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.
SUMMARY
Even though Jesus died for our sins, Paul lets us know that we should celebrate because his death is our re-birth in Christ as our sins are cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. We did not earn our current status, and we are still far from being perfect, but only through the grace of God, we are justified by faith. We are to celebrate in any circumstance because we are not under the wrath of God anymore, but reconciled with God forever by Jesus Christ.
REFLECTION AND MEDITATION
Verses 3-4 really spoke to me: "we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope". Real faith does not sway in any circumstances. It is not because a faithful person does not go through any tribulations, however he/she is ready to handle those challenges by fighting with the Lord, having an intimate relationship with Him and having the ultimate hope. It is not because God will resolve the issues or challenges but God just being there and having the continuing walk with Him. The hope I need should not be worldly blessings that I wish to receive from God. I hope that my faith moves me to pray and yearn for things according to God's plans for me. I hope that I find my joy through the process.
APPLICATION
I will be in an intimate relationship with God daily, praying and meditating His words. They are all I need on a daily basis to get through my day.
PRAYER
Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice. Thank you, Jesus, for your grace to save an unworthy person like me. I only want to be worthy within you. I pray that you will continue to mold me through my life so that perseverance will win over any tribulations I may face, and no matter what, I will always continue to have hope in you, Lord. Amen.
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