Your Identity in Christ
Romans 8:22-24a
We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first-fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved.
• Though I mourn, I will not let any present sufferings steal my hope in the Lord; in Christ, I wait eagerly and yet patiently for my full adoption as His child.
We begin today’s devotion with a question about your identity: Do you consider yourself a mourner? This is not about being a whiner or complainer; nor is the question, “do you look for opportunities to mourn?” Rather, do you embrace mourning whenever it arises? Or instead, do you make a concerted effort to steer clear of any association with sadness, avoiding it like the plague?
It’s interesting to read that disciples of Jesus can (maybe should?) experience an inward groaning according to Romans 8:23. That’s not license to complain or whine. But it is an acknowledgement that this is not how it is supposed to be. Not for you, not for the world.
Sin in general has wreaked havoc on life in this world from micro to macro magnitudes. God’s plan of redemption is still moving forward despite distressing signs that contribute to seasons of mourning. That plan includes our restoration. Being a mourner does not mean we’ve been forgotten by God. It means we are still in a fallen, broken world awaiting God’s full restoration. As John’s Revelation concludes: Come Lord Jesus! Yes, come soon!
Prayer
Lord Jesus, as You know this world can be very difficult to stomach; it can be gut-wrenching at times. Thank You for the comfort of knowing that our mourning is not unnoticed by You. Thanks for clarifying that our negative experiences don’t mean that God is mad at us. When we mourn over big situations like death, loss, cancer, or job loss, or even smaller things like schedule problems, technical difficulties, or financial setbacks, remind us to turn to You for comfort. Amen.
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 119:65-72 (Teth, 9th letter)
- Do good to your servant
according to your word, LORD. - Teach me knowledge and good judgment,
for I trust your commands. - Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I obey your word. - You are good, and what you do is good;
teach me your decrees. - Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies, I keep your precepts with all my heart.
- Their hearts are callous and unfeeling,
but I delight in your law. - It was good for me to be afflicted
so that I might learn your decrees. - The law from your mouth
is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.
Micro-Meditation
Teaching or Command of God
1 Peter 1:14-16
As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”
Proverbs 21:21
Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.
Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point
What experiences in life led you to a greater obedience in following God’s ways and Word?
Journal Prompt: What experiences in life
led you to a greater obedience in following
God’s ways and Word?
