Scripture
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Reflection
Every phrase and every word Paul writes is so full of meaning. Now that all has been made right between God and us, not by keeping a series of laws but by our faith in Him we have peace. Peace here is not the absence of strife but the presence of God’s life in us and around us. Yes. We are glad to say that “our ticket has been punched”; a place in Heaven is secured for us after we die, but even now the journey toward our eternal home has begun. A journey which will include suffering and setbacks, character development and back to hope again. On the day we stand before God we will discover then, more than at any other time, we were not ashamed to have been called a “Christian” (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How will you apply what God is telling you in your life today?
- Is there someone you feel you need to tell this message to?
Prayer
Look around and pray. It’s easy to forget to pay attention when making the same journey every day. Use your travel time to look around and pray for what you see. Pray for the buildings you pass; the people you see, your fellow travellers. Invite God’s presence to show you your commute through His eyes.
