December 9 (Daily reading: Romans 8-10) Romans 8 is the Christian victory cry! Victory is assured by this reality: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (v. 1). They “(have) eternal life and will not be judged but (have) crossed over from death to life” (Jn. 5:24, NIV). Just think of it: the haunting sin question is settled once and for all!
Another thing that is settled once and for all is our position in Christ: “The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God” (v. 16)! As God’s children, we declare victory because of future promises, regardless of present circumstances. As “heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ” (v. 17), our sufferings cannot even “be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (v. 18).
We declare victory because the Holy Spirit is interceding for us “according to the will of God.” This assures us “that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (vv. 27-28). This promise produces the same hope that Joseph had. What was meant for evil against him, God turned into good in order to bring about His purposes! (Gen. 50:20).
Then there is the ultimate victory cry: “If God is for us, who is against us?” (v. 31). God “delivered (His Son) over for us all.” In Christ, there is no condemnation, only justification! Answer truthfully this question and you have the answer to every life question: “Who will separate us from the love of Christ?” (v. 35). Here is victory: “We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (v. 37, NKJV). Nothing “will (ever) be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (v. 39). Amen! Hallelujah!
– Al Gary
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