Romans 8:23
"Not only that, but we also who have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body.
NKJV
Don't focus on today's groaning but on tomorrow's glory.
In this Christianity thing, what do you bring to the table? There are really only two possibilities - either you are bringing heaven to earth, or you are not. It's so easy to get caught up in today's trials that we forget our Lord is triumphant. When your focus is on the world, you will be entangled in adversity. Focus on Jesus and the tribulations of this earth are ephemeral.
Have you ever spoken with someone who is fixated on trouble? They bear a brand of defeat. Only the conquered should wear this badge of defeat. Christians are anything but conquered. Now, imagine some gentleman - not a believer - observing a Christian enamored with this world. Would he see hope? Would this fellow be inclined to follow?
Romans 8:24-25 "For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance." NKJV
So, what do you bring to the table? What do you set before others for them to see? Is it heaven or hell? Your faith is their evidence. If non-believers see you living out the substance of your faith they will know that your God is greater than this world's woes.
If you are sitting at the station of this world waiting for your go on the gravy train, you are sitting at the wrong station. That train, while tempting on the outside, has a disappointing destination. Christian, if the substance of your hope is worldly success and not Jesus, then you need to review your faith because others already are.
Dear Father,
Thank You for the hope You have freely given to me through Your Son Jesus. Lord, help my doubt when I cannot see. As I eagerly wait in expectation of Your coming, strengthen me to persevere in the calling You have laid before me. I know that all things work together for good to those who love You Lord. I commit my life to your purposes today. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Living to tell what He died to say,
Pastor David McGee
Senior Pastor
Calvary Chapel of the Triad
reachthetriad.com
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