Romans 8:11 – What’s Inside?

“The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.” (Romans 8:11)

That same Spirit of God “lives in you.” This verse makes that bold statement, and the promise to follow is hard to believe. When we are feeling weak or unsure of ourselves, we need to remember we have that same power of God living inside us. Why do we put boundaries on what God can do?

Context (Romans 8:1-30): Paul’s teaching is all about what life in the Spirit is all about. That is, what does living a life with Jesus as our King look like? When we let the Holy Spirit reign in our hearts, our lives start to look a lot clearer and freer. Being made right with God is the ultimate cleansing most people miss out on. They are too busy chasing some other shiny object instead of leaning into a spirit-filled life.

I’m not in any hurry to leave this life, but this promise makes the inevitable future very appealing. Not everyone has this same assurance in death. It’s still a mystery what actually happens to our mortal bodies other than our heart stops and all other body functions do the same. Jesus died, and we will die.

When we rely on our own power and strength, we often fall short of our goal. Imagine the distance between us now and where God intended for us to be. It’s never too late to lean into God and see where he takes you. Not everyone will get the message like we did to move to Mexico.

Some scholars state this verse is talking about Jesus resurrecting our bodies in the future. Others suggest this is a message of faith for us in the present. The beautiful thing with Scripture is the possibility it can be both past and future.

We can experience part of the promise now and enjoy the fruits of having the Spirit live inside us. Our current mortal bodies are made stronger because the Spirit lives within.

I’ll never forget an internet story that talks of a doctor and his young patient undergoing open heart surgery. When the doctor asks the little boy if he understands what is going to happen, the little boy boldly proclaims, “You’re going to see Jesus in my heart.” That’s the kind of fearless devotion we should have.

What’s inside your heart? Have you put up walls and feel a bit empty and depleted or are you just exhausted from working so hard to please God that you can’t enjoy all the abundance? Pause for a moment to reflect on times you’ve relied on the Spirit living inside you and how those victories make you feel.

Let’s pray. Lord, how can I ever thank you enough for all the blessings in my life. My biggest joy comes from knowing you live inside my heart, helping me each day even when I don’t know it. Forgive me for not being more grateful for each provision. I look around amazed at all you have given. Thank you for going before me and for giving me rest in you. Help me do a better job of relying on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.