All of us are struggling with something. Maybe it’s getting older, maybe it’s weight issues, maybe it’s relationship issues, maybe it’s financial issues. Sometimes we feel like all we do is face an uphill battle. One step forward and then two steps back. If you can identify, this passage is for you.
We are not alone in our struggles. We read today that “all creation” eagerly waits and has been groaning in pains of childbirth. For all who know God and his beautiful gift of salvation, we wait in anticipation of something beyond our comprehension. The saying, “this, too, shall pass” should be on our lips.
We can join with all creation in waiting, in knowing without a doubt that the day of glory is coming. Some think it is coming sooner rather than later. That would be nice, but it’s best not to even think about the “when.” We have the benefit of the Spirit living inside us. We have God’s power at our finger tips.
When is the last time you called upon God’s power in your life? Earlier today for me. I was down for the count with a headache that just wouldn’t go away. My to-do list was longer than my arm. I always like to look back and see how much I accomplish when I’m using the “power” and not my own strength. So why don’t we call on the Spirit more in our lives?
Living with hope is living with peace. When things look a little drear in the here and now…we need to remember what’s to come. Remember the promise of eternity. Remember that new body. When my mom was on her death bed, her body was broken. Her cancer was winning. Prior to that, she had lived in a tomb of post-polio disabilities that kept her from enjoying life as she would have lived. Her new body in heaven must be just spectacular!
Our final destination is something we don’t have yet, but it fills us with great hope. There may be things on earth that you are dreaming of, too. I think this passage speaks to those as well. Verse 25 says, “But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.”
What are you dreaming of? I’ve written out my vision for my earthly future as a homework assignment in a challenge I’m involved in for our business. I am waiting
Have you written out your dream? Have you told God about it?
Let’s pray. Lord, you know the desires of my heart. Above all, I want to serve you and bring glory to you in all I say and do. You have placed on my heart a new ministry or way of serving the world. I am looking to you for the provision in helping distribute the hope. Thank you for the experiences you’ve allowed me to experience in life that led me to this moment. Use each triumph and hurt to help others in need. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
