Romans 5:6-11 ~ For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
Without Him we were Without Strength
There is a certain arrogance in all the earth pre-salvation, a deception from the depths of Hell that you don’t need God to complete your life, or to save you from Hell. It’s mostly present on the good days. It’s those days when they look in the bank and see money, when they look in the mirror and see beauty, when they look inwardly and see health. When all is well. And then it happens…just past the copious (abundance) carnality lies mortality and reality. Sadness or sorrow strike and suddenly you realize that all the money in the world can’t buy health, beauty or happiness. And in reality you are weak. And when you’ve realized that and the arrogance comes back… “I have to fight against this, else I’ll be devoured in grief;” only you’ve not realized it yet but you’re already in the lions mouth.
Without Him we were Without Goodness
I am always in awe of the American military force. They willingly put their lives on the line for a Nation that has allowed the hierarchy and political pundits to throw them to the wolves, who’d sooner they be devoured than defend “their” soil. Nor can I understand how over 2,000 years ago as Christ hung on the cross, crucified by the political and religious factions, yet still willing to die for us so that we could have the hope of eternity in Heaven. I know on most days my goodness is limited at best. And then I look at my children and grandbabies and think about eternal separation. And for a split second I get it. We’d do anything possible to keep from being separated. And when Christ hung on that cross, He did it so that a Holy God could be with an unholy people.
Without Him we were Without Hope
Until you’ve discovered the hope of accepting what Christ did for you, you’ll never get the joy of having hope. The joy in realizing that the fear of death is gone, that He control’s the universe and that come what may you have a home waiting for you in Glory that will allow you to live in a state of perfection with a perfect family, forever. We don’t have to understand His ways, we only have to remember His willingness to die for us. If He was willing to do that, He’s not going to waste our lives by allowing us to go through something without reason, we have a Hope! His Name is Jesus.
Jesus was the final atonement allowing us at-ONE-ment. One in Him. He is our completion.
I’m so thankful this morning for the Hope that dwells within my heart and I am not without. When I’m discouraged, or worried about the circumstances in life, how awesome it to know that Jesus is in control.
How about you? Are you weak, worried, wrong?…God’s got you covered.
Extremely moving Shari; Thank You !!! I am so thankful to “BE WITH” it is unbelievable. Recently faced with Stage 4 cancer and the possibility of ‘going home’ in the near future this article rings so very true and I appreciate your posting. God Bless You. rick stambaugh, U.S. Navy Retired
God Bless You Rick. First of all I’m so sorry that you’re facing such hard times with health. If you wouldn’t mind I’ll add you to our prayer list. Secondly, hallelujah! that you are within the body of believers and that above all you have hope in He Who created the universe. Tomorrow is guaranteed for no one, Jesus could come back before I hit enter on this post, I’m excited to know that you “know.” Please take care and keep me posted. Your sister and servant in the Lord Jesus. ~ Shari
Shari, I would be honored to be on your prayer list. Every single little prayer we can give not only helps; IT WORKS !!! I’ve seen it too often not to believe !!! Sorry if my comment came across as seeming to want sympathy; only meant to back up and express the pure JOY which can be achieved as outlined in your post. Had just read and made a comment on Pastor Dewey’s post on ‘the purpose of pain’ which also moved me deeply and your post only backed it up even more; I’m sure you’ve read it. The joy of knowing my future, when ever that may be which is at GOD’s will and in HIS plan, is just UNBELIEVEABLE and I pray all could realize the wonder and peace that brings to one’s soul !!! GOD BLESS – rick
Rick, you did come across wanting sympathy! You were just being real, and praise God we serve a Real Savior who gives real answers. God always has a plan, sometimes I get ahead of it, sometimes I’m running to catch up, but He is always right on time. Love ya in the Lord Brother. You’re on my list! the good one ;)
I really should read my post before I hit submit. You DID NOT come across wanting sympathy… I hope my statement did not cause you heartache Rick. I’ve treasured your comments on my posts.