Simple lessons from Romans – part 9
The best is yet to come
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. – Romans 8:18
If someone taught you that Christians don’t suffer, let me tell you that such teaching isn’t from the bible. In fact, you will find many bible verses that teach that Christian living is not without suffering (e.g. Romans 5:3, 2 Corinthians 12:10, Philippians 1:29, 1 Peter 2:20). Suffering is part of a world that has been corrupted by sin. Everybody suffers: Christians and non-Christians. However, Christians know that suffering in this world is just temporary, but our prize is eternal. And while we wait for our prize, we live our lives strengthened by faith (Romans 5:1), hope (Colossians 1:5), peace (Philippians 4:6-7), consolation (2 Corinthians 1:3-5), and above all, God’s love (1 John 4:9-10).
For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. – Romans 8:24-25
Do all this mean that Christian life is full of suffering and our only hope is in things to come? No. Being children of God (John 1:12) have great benefits (there is not enough space to talk about these in just one blog, but browse through the ministry blogs and you will know what I am talking about). As Christians, we know where we are (present sufferings), and we know where we are headed (the glory that will be revealed). That knowledge gives you a different perspective and a great advantage over life sufferings.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. – Romans 8:28
It doesn’t matter what happens to us (those who love God), God will make things work (help, cooperate) for our good. That is, even in the midst of persecution, suffering, pain or loss, God will make something good come out of it. Nobody can avoid problems, but Christians can live with the certainty that God will bless us in spite of the problems. The verse includes a Disclaimer: this offer is only valid for true Christians: “those called according to his purpose…conformed to the likeness of His son” (Romans 8:28b-29).
In the midst of life’s problems stand firm, for in Christ the best is yet to come.
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