Tuesday, May 5, 2009

May 5, 2009 - Romans 8

Romans 8 is filled with encouraging and inspiring language, especially following the section of chapter 7 where Paul describes his, and our, struggle with doing the things that we want to do. Here Paul explains the role(s) of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He names several different roles in just this chapter. The Spirit helps us control our thoughts and desires, specifically so that we are not controlled by the sinful nature. By the Spirit, Paul says we can "put to death the misdeeds of the body". Here he mentions our adoption as sons into God's family and seems to be saying, "Act like the sons that you are!" The Spirit also helps us by interceding for us when we don't know what we ought to pray. God knows what is on our hearts and minds and the Spirit intercedes in those situations. If those weren't encouraging enough, Paul closes the chapter with a section that reminds us of the good that God has in store for us and that nothing will ever separate us from His love for us in Christ. What more could we ask for to face another day, another struggle, whatever the circumstance?

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