In The Word
Read: Romans 5:1-11
Results of Justification
5 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we also have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we celebrate in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will hardly die for a righteous person; though perhaps for the good person someone would even dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. 11 And not only this, but we also celebrate in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation
Walking In The Word
Can anything good come from something bad? Paul says that it can, and he even says we should rejoice when trouble comes because it produces the godly traits of perseverance, character, and hope. James says that when we let perseverance fully work in our lives, then we “may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:4) We should not cause trouble for ourselves or others by taking sinful actions or making foolish decisions. But if trouble by a lack of our own action should come our way, then know something good can come from it because “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
Because you are reading this devotional, you likely desire for God to help you become a more godly person. Then realize He often uses difficult situations to help us grow and become more mature. Even Yeshua, “Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered.” (Hebrews 5:8) If our Savior had to grow in maturity this way, then we must also.
Instead of complaining or despising when difficulty comes, ask God to give you the strength to handle it in a godly manner and use it to grow in maturity and Christlikeness. “Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12)