Romans__15
Scripture Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.Observation-What does it say? Starting in chapter 12, Paul gives advice regarding our behavior as Christians. Through these chapters, we are encouraged to live a life in contrast to what we are being told by the world: use our gifts to serve others, not ourselves; submit to the government, because their authority comes from God; use your freedom to build up those who are weaker, instead of an opportunity for your pleasure; lay down your “rights” for others, this way you can build unity. But, none of this is possible without hope.Our hope, though, cannot be conjured up by our own effort. It comes only through the power of the Holy Spirit. But, our hope should not be in the things we can see, here and now, we hope for our home in a new heaven and a new earth (2 Peter 3:13).Understanding-What does it mean? I was listening to a podcast a while ago, and the interview was with the author of a book talking about how fleeting motivation is. At the beginning of the interview, they discussed the excitement that people feel at the beginning of the new year, especially in terms of goals and resolutions of things like weight loss and travel. But, for many people, the excitement wanes quickly as the burden of life weighs down on you. Motivation, he said, “is a myth.” The remedy to this is discipline. When I was done listening to the podcast, I was really motivated to be disciplined… which lasted about three days.The problem I find with most self-help authors and programs that I try to implement into my life, is they lack the “why.” For me, the thought of losing weight, or getting smarter, or saving more money is great, but can quickly be overcome by real world stuff. Saving money is great, until you need to replace your transmission. Losing weight is great, until you work the night shift and the only thing open to eat at two A.M. is Jack-in-the-Box. The “why” in these cases have no substance and no support.In our Christian life though, the why is greater than anything on earth. Our life becomes not just a temporary thing, but one without end. Our actions have implications into the eternity which we cannot see right now. Therefore, our life can be viewed in terms of service and worship to the creator of the universe (Colossians 3:23-24). Not only that, but we can use our actions as a billboard for Christ’s love for others (Philippians 2:3-4). Additionally, we don’t have to rely on our own strength, but that of the Holy Spirit, who was sent by Jesus (John 14:6).
Life Application Jesus, thank you for the family of believers around me that point me to you. Help me to also be an advocate for my brothers and sisters in Christ. Help me to fight the good fight, and help me to join others in their fight. For our fight is not against flesh, but it is in the spirit. I want to always look to you, the author and perfecter of my faith.
-Tyler Galloway