Romans – Be Still…

Romans 15:7 – Be Welcoming

“Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.” (Romans 15:7)

When there’s a “therefore” that starts a verse, grammar rules tell us that that one word signifies that what follows will sum up all that has come before. It will be good to unpack what that is exactly to fully grasp the beauty and relevance of this verse.

Context (Romans 15:1-7): The preceding six verses here in Romans 15 are quite something. Each of them could stand alone as a memory verse to direct our lives. They fall in a section in the New Living Translation entitled, “Living to Please Others.” That’s a loaded question and also misleading when you think about who it is we are trying to please in this life. As a people pleaser myself, I have to regularly remind myself that I exist to please God. If people are offended by that, so be it. My nature prefers when everything is harmonious. Continue reading “Romans 15:7 – Be Welcoming”

Romans 8:38 – Security

^“And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.” (Romans 8:38)

The first time this verse hit me like a ton of bricks was during a funeral service. I’ll never forget my pastor husband was preaching on this text. Meanwhile, I had an overflow of guests in the church basement listening as the service was transmitted via speakers. When a verse strikes you with such intensity, you pay attention.

Context (Romans 8:31-39): Paul’s words comfort us, assuring us that God has chosen us, set us apart, and made us right with himself. Furthermore, nothing can separate us from God’s love. Paul was convinced of this, and he wanted the believers in Rome to know that. Those early believers would have been facing all sorts of adversity. Hearing that as believers we have God’s favor, his protection, his unwavering love, and ultimate victory in Christ would have fueled their confident hope in their salvation. Continue reading “Romans 8:38 – Security”

Romans 12:2 – Be Transformed!

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)

There is so much focus these days on transformation. I don’t think a day goes by when I don’t see some sort of physical transformation celebrated on social media–from weight loss to wrinkle reduction. We applaud those who must now be feeling more content with their appearance. But those are not the transformations Paul was talking about here.

Context (Romans 12:1-5): The book of Romans covers so much ground teaching us about living a Christian life. This short section alone deals with how we should devote ourselves to God and what that behavior looks like. Paul warns us to be careful not to focus on the wrong things in life, even when looking in the mirror. Who are we as Christ followers? Continue reading “Romans 12:2 – Be Transformed!”

Romans 8:28 – For Our Own Good

^“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28)

For “those who love God,” this verse has a significant promise. For those far from God or indifferent to him, this assurance does not exist. How do we respond to God knowing he has our best interests in mind?

Context (Romans 8:26-30): This verse is nestled in Paul’s discussion about the Holy Spirit helping us in our weakness. It’s a beautiful image of how God takes over when we aren’t capable. Sometimes we’re in such a dark place we don’t even know what to pray. That is when the Holy Spirit can shine through us. Our memory verse emphasizes the protection and provision we have when we love God. God knew we would need a helper. Continue reading “Romans 8:28 – For Our Own Good”

Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in This!

“Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.” (Romans 12:12)

As believers, we don’t just have confidence; we have “confident hope.” Instead of just hoping things work out, our confident hope gives us assurance because of what Jesus did for us. We don’t have to worry; we place our trust in Jesus, who always keeps his promises. Doesn’t having that kind of confident hope bring you peace and comfort, too?

Context (Romans 12): This verse is one of many gems in the 12^th chapter of Romans talking about our lives as Christians. This verse comes right after Paul talks about being part of the Body of Christ, each of us having our own gifts to offer to the kingdom. Let this verse remind you of your allegiance as well as your community of faithful believers. Continue reading “Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in This!”