He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him freely give us all things? 33). Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. 34). Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35). Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36). As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37). Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38). For I am persuaded, that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39). Nor height, nor depth, not any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ROMANS 8: 32-39
We all experience hardship, and trials can shake us unless we cling to truth. I find, in God’s word, three assurances to remember when troublesome circumstances arise.
First, God will always meet our needs. This doesn’t mean He provides everything we want. Instead, the Lord will bless us with all that is necessary to fulfill His purpose for our lives. His goal is to sanctify us, not simply to satisfy each immediate desire.
Second, we’re never alone. I find, in Hebrews, God promised to be with us always. Loneliness often accompanies hardship, so we may feel deserted or opposed by family and friends. But according to the Gospel of John, our Father has sent His Spirit to be with us and in us, until the day He brings us to heaven. He is all we need–our advocate, guide, helper, and comforter. Recognizing His intimate presence gives us confidence in the midst of trials.
Third, God’s love is eternal. Regardless of our circumstances or poor decisions, His care is unconditional–even when He reprimands us. Loving parents allow disobedient children to experience the consequences of wrong choices; they recognize the benefit of learning from mistakes. Of course, there are also times when we are negatively affected by others’ wrong actions. Even then, God is sovereign and allows only what will bring good in His followers’ lives.
In difficult times, we can remember that God will meet all of our needs, is always with us, and loves us forever. Though Jesus said we would face troubles in this life, He offered encouragement: The ultimate victory is His. So keep in mind that trials are fleeting, whereas our Father’s love is forever.
-IBC
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