Romans 5:1-5
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who He has given us.
Devotion
Paul now will detail some of the benefits that result from the doctrine of justification by faith. The first benefit is that we have peace with God. When we put our trust in Jesus, we are reconciled to God. Instead of being alienated from God, we experience peace with God. Paul describes it this way, “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding.” There is something about knowing that you are right with your Creator. It is hard to describe. It is not necessarily the absence of conflict but a calm in the midst of the storm. The second benefit is that we have access to His grace. This is wonderful news because we need His grace each and every day. While we are justified with God through our faith in Jesus, we still struggle with our sinful nature. Having access to God’s grace daily brings us great comfort as we live out this spiritual journey. The third benefit is that we are able to rejoice in the hope and glory of God regardless of our circumstances. Hope is a powerful thing! Hope allows us to face each day with a positive frame of mind. The last benefit of justification is that He has given us His Spirit to accompany us on this spiritual journey. We are never alone! The Spirit of God is always with us.
Questions to Ponder:
Which one of these benefits is most meaningful to you? Why? Which one of these benefits do you struggle to embrace? Why?
Prayer Points
- Praise our Prince of Peace and God of all comfort. Worship our Father in heaven as being faithful, forgiving, patient, and kind. Allow the Hope of Glory in You, the Spirit of Christ, the Holy Spirit to love and encourage you right now by reminding You of how deeply loved, valued, and precious you are to Him and His Church family.
- Thank the Lord for His amazing grace and riches of Your inheritance both now and in the next age. Thank Him for sealing you with the Holy Spirit. Thank Him for granting You sonship, forgiveness, and redemption. Thank Him for washing you with His Word, setting you apart, rescuing you from the dominion of darkness, and transferring you into the kingdom of light.
- Delight yourself in Him right now. Talk to Him in your own words and ways. Allow time for His Spirit to minister to you (have your Bible open, read verses to help to hear His voice).
Suggested Prayer
Oh, God, You are my God, and there is no other. Thank You for lifting up my head. Thank You for giving me that robe, sandals, and ring upon my finger. Thank You for pursuing me and never letting me go. Oh, what depths of love; what height of love. Oh, God, open the eyes of my heart so that I may know You better. Open the eyes of my brothers’ and sisters’ hearts so they may know You and the depth of Your love. Have mercy upon us, Lord. Draw us by Your Spirit so You, Christ, reign at the center of our hearts. Help us to grasp and take hold of Your love so we may share Your love to those around us. Oh, come, Lover of my soul, and lead me into Your heart today. I ask in Your Son, Jesus Christ’s, name. Amen.