Rom. 8 (Read the entire chapter)
It’s obvious that we can’t escape troubles and trials, but we can endure tough times. The question is “How?” At this very moment some of you are having a difficult day and it almost seems like mockery for someone to suggest it could be otherwise. Some are wondering “Is it even possible?” They are so distraught that it seems that they will never laugh again – that happy days are forever over.
I am so very sorry and truly sincere when I say “I wish I could help”, but I can’t – at least not to the extent you desire. I can’t change your circumstances, answer you questions, nor supply what you long for. Chances are nobody else can either. Your need is such that nothing short of divine aid can deliver you from your dilemma. But there is good news. Although I can’t provide all your needs I can point you to the One who can. Of that I am sure. I base that statement on the Word of God, especially Romans 8, where I see four tremendous truths that should bring hope to your feelings of helplessness. Here they are —
I. GOD’S PAST PROVISIONSWhat we see here is astonishing and accurate. If you have received Christ as your Lord and Savior, God has removed all condemnation ( vs. 1), released you from the law of sin and death (vs. 2), put His Spirit within you (vs. 9-11), led you (vs. 14), freed you from fear (vs. 15), assured you of salvation (vs. 16), given you reason to hope (vs.17-25), and helped you with everything from pain to your prayers (vs.26-27). In other words, He has met your greatest needs. If He can do that He can do anything.
If that isn’t enough, look at history and you see His hand on every page. As someone said, “History is His-story”. In deed it is. God is sovereign and we see His providence everywhere. Over and over we see Him meeting the needs of people when it seems impossible. He can do the same for you!
II. GOD’S PROMISESIn Rom. 8:28 we find what might be the most popular verse among Christians. But that’s just one of many. The Bible is full of precious promises that are both true and tremendous. Acquaint yourself with them and cling to them like a drowning man to a life preserver. They will buoy you up when the storm is raging and no help is in sight. There is a promise for every need and God cannot lie (Titus 1:2). Standing on His promises can hold you up when the whole world has let you down.
III. GOD’S POWERIn Rom. 8:31-39 we see that God’s power is able to give us the victory over every enemy, get us through every trial, make us “more than conquerors”, and keep us secure in His love forever. His power is unlimited, sufficient for every need, and available for every child of God. You ought to write the words “He is able” on your mirror where you can see it every morning.
IV. GOD’S PURPOSEI’ve kept this for last because it speaks of what God is working toward and what He will bring us to. Rom. 8:29 tells us His purpose is that we might “be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” Regardless of how things are going this is where they’re going. Regardless of how bad it is, this is how good it will end! For the Christian the best is yet to come. – HDS
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
