Stress Test Devotional May 4
May 04, 2024
ROMANS 8:18-25| I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God; for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the glorious liberty of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning in travail together until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Indirectly this story raises the issue of “natural evils.” Despite the world’s beauty and fecundity it is also a dangerous place where we fight for survival. There is disease and pestilence, earthquake and tsunami, flood and volcanic eruption. The natural world is beautiful, and bountiful, and it is deadly. As we interact with the environments that are hostile and hospitable, we have unique opportunities to serve and help one another overcome challenges. From emergency responders to disaster relief organizations, some of the greatest human virtues emerge in response to crisis. But the Bible also teaches that these threats are signs that creation, like human nature, is plagued by brokenness. All creation groans, says Paul, waiting for liberation from decay. The natural world is also destined for renewal within God’s plan. His willingness to suffer himself, within the bounds of human life, is a sign of hope for that day when the sun will shine without burning and the sea shimmer without destroying.
What is the most hostile environment you’ve faced?
