Peace and Hope

The “therefore” refers to the chapters before where the legal term “justified” (accepted) is applied to all who are His. Because of what Jesus did, God gives His righteousness to all who believe. The first benefit? Peace. Not the “peace of God” spoken of in other places like Philippians 4:7, but peace with God through the work of Christ. We are rebels who have put their arms down and surrendered. Life is still a battle but no longer a battle against God. It is fighting for Him. And we do that standing in grace. That is living in the love God has poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (verse 5). Nothing can separate us from that love (Romans 8:38ff).

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REFLECTION

The Ultimate Connection

By Jennifer Jerrome

Today’s passage is a prime example of how one thing leads to another.  We are justified through faith. We experience peace through Jesus. Our suffering produces perseverance. Character is built through patience and hope springs from righteousness. The ultimate connection is with God’s love which has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

These intricate bonds reveal a stunning pattern that can and has been repeated from generation to generation. Paul’s words in Romans 5 are as true today as they were 2000 years ago. And we need these same connections now more than ever.  We’ve seen a lot of things unravel in 2020 and many of us feel like we’re barely holding on.

So to those who may be feeling the angst, please hear these words… Peace comes through Jesus and hope through the Holy Spirit given to us through God. Our relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is now and always will be the answer. May the peace and hope of the Trinity bring you joy this Advent season.

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER - FRIDAY

FAITH - Pray for faith instead of fear, that many would come to faith in Jesus and that we would all trust God more deeply during this time.