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So what are we going to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He didn’t spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. Won’t he also freely give us all things with him? Romans 8:31 - 32

Are there times that we are concerned about quiet opposition or social rejection because we are followers and disciples of Christ? Paul illustrated in his letter to the Roman churches that God has given all for us in Jesus and if God is for us what else really matters?

This is a powerful scripture that places every opposition to Christianity into perspective. Remember in 55 AD the Christians in Rome were embattled by the Jewish theocracy over the acceptance and validity of the Gospels. The early Christians were advancing the acceptance of Christ as the Messiah but were opposed by the Jewish leaders and the Pharisees. They  continued their ministry to the Jews and gentiles of Rome converting many to Christianity and decades later their ministry was responsible for converting all of the Roman Empire.

I’m reminded that the chronicles of ancient history will not identify Paul as a great ruler, wealthy merchant, respected political figure, popular author, or a rock star. These are recognitions merited by the world not God. Paul walked over 10,000 miles establishing churches across Euro Asia and the Middle East. He was persecuted both by the Romans and the Jews. He paid his way as he traveled by repairing tents sustaining the mission. He wrote over half of what we know as the New Testament. He walked in mission with the Father bringing salvation to generations. Paul was great because he accepted and understood the love of the Father.

I once read a business publication that suggested we could decrease stress by imagining a secret place, imaginary or real, where we were safe, could dream and rest from the pressures of the world. For some their special safe place of rejuvenation may be a quiet beach, a waterfall beside a lake, a hidden cabin in the mountains, or a secret garden. But Paul found respite in a relationship with Jesus. He resided in God’s grace. Remember, sustaining peace is the outcome of a grace-filled relationship with God established through constant prayer. I have met strong Christians that exude an overwhelming sense of peace understanding that they are in the care of the Father. Like Paul, they are always in a safe place regardless of the challenges of the world.

I’m reminded of the old quote, “Behind every successful man is a great woman.” And as a married man needing a few extra brownie points will state that as absolute fact… But in my humble opinion, the quote merits important additions, “Behind every successful person is a loving God who sends His supporting and caring earthly angels”. I know that love, support and encouragement from a spouse, parent, or friend improves our attitude and kindles our internal drive. Their confidence and prayers simply make us more successful. If we are bolstered by the love of those on earth how much more successful can we be if we accept the grace and  blessings of the Father?

11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf  coming and leaves the sheep and runs away—and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 The hired hand runs away because a hired hand does not care for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 I
have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will
listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it up again. I have received this command from my Father.”
John 10:11-18

So if God is for us…. what else matters? We are always in a safe place. We are the children of a loving God who asked His Son to lay down His life for us. We recognize that righteous living is good for our souls, strengthens our families, restructures our communities, and transforms our lives. Righteous living is a faithful response to God’s love,… and within His grace we find His peace.

Prayer: Father, grant us the ability to comprehend the great value of the gift of Jesus Christ and to accept your grace and peace to aid in our faithful journey. Grant us the strength to follow the Good Shepherd and to keep His flock. Amen.

 

The Wesleyan Bridge is written by K.B. Kelly with the Reverend Valerie Mireb and Pastor Hank Brooks as Theological Editors with Debbie Kelly as Text and Content Editor.