“What, then, shalll we say in response to this? “If God is for us, who is for us?” —Romans 8:31
This verse is from a very heady passage in Romans 8, a chapter of great depth and wide life overarching guidance. Romans 8:31 is a comforting verse, often used as a topical salve to help us feel better after a bad day. However, this verse has parameters and inferred restrictions. “If” God is for us. He is, when we are in Christ Jesus! We fail and fall but He never does. “Who can be against us?” A person plus God is an unbeatable majority! That’s a comforting promise.
And yet….Are you ever your own worst enemy? Are you ever against yourself, finding fault, criticizing your very being? That’s probably a “yes”. Christ died to set us free. He died just for you. He has forgiven you, past, present and future. You are His beloved creation. He’s asking all of us, “Who can be against my Beloved?” He loves us so very much it’s doubtful that any of us can fully grasp the depth of that. When we don’t forgive ourselves, carry grudges against ourselves, we are against what He has created.
“Love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind….and love your neighbor as yourself.” —Matthew 22:37
Thank you, Lord God, for how You love us. Thank you for reminding us to not be against ourselves, but to love You, love others, and love ourselves. We honor You by how we love. In the Gracious Name of Jesus, Amen
