Romans 5:1-5 – “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we boast in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only this, but we also boast in our afflictions, knowing that affliction brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not put to shame, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

A typical day for me begins with waking up, getting dressed, making a cup of coffee, taking my Bible, and spending time sipping or gulping my coffee, reading, and praying.  In that alone time with the Word and the LORD, I find my inspiration for the day and frequently my instructions. I cherish that time and protect it.

When my day is to begin extra early, with other duties or needs, I rise a bit earlier to ensure that my morning routine is kept intact and my time with the Word and the LORD protected.  I remember the Words of Jesus, “Man cannot live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” I receive that as my directive. I have learned the truth of that statement and the value of hearing from God daily through His Word and Spirit.

The reality that Peace with God is achieved through Faith and Obedience is uplifting and encouraging. Paul said something very interesting in that verse: “Through whom (Jesus) have we obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand…” Wow!

Consider some words and thoughts that are important:

• Introduction. If you are introduced to something or someone, does that mean you have a thorough knowledge of them or it? An introduction is a door or entryway, not the finished product. It is the beginning. This grace into which we have been introduced through faith and the new birth is Amazing and introduces us to the process of growing from grace to grace and glory to glory. God desires maturity in Him in us so that we can not only navigate life’s events but also help us.

• Difficulties and trials come to every believer, and rather than mumbling and grumbling about our lot in life and having a why me attitude, we should reread Romans 5:1-5. The difficulties of life bring about perseverance.

• Perseverance, Proven Character, and Hope.  Perseverance is learned through experience. Perseverance brings about proven character, and proven character produces Hope!

That is incredible! Hope does not allow shame to grip us because the Love of God is poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

The Christian Life is not a life without problems, but it is a life of victory and transformation. We are not to desire trouble, but when it comes, rather than lamenting it, we should use God’s promises to learn how to walk victoriously in and out of it. We are more than conquerors through Jesus!

The Bible teaches that all who live godly in Christ Jesus will experience tribulation, trials, and difficulties. That fiery trial is not to punish us but to enable us to grow, and as we learn to walk victoriously through it all, God empowers us with His Spirit. We can then set captives free and exercise authority over all the power of darkness.

Today, rather than grumbling about problems, rejoice that God is God, and through Jesus, you are more than a conqueror! Today is your day to rejoice and take another step toward spiritual maturity that enables you to walk in the fullness of Kingdom Victory! This is the day the Lord has made, and we are His and Joint Heirs with Jesus, so it is our day – Why Not Begin to Rejoice?  

May God’s Grace and Peace Guard you today and every day!