23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.

24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees?

25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.

26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.

27 And He who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

29 For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers.

30 And those whom He predestined He also called, and those whom He called He also justified, and those whom He justified He also glorified.

— Romans 8:23-30

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and love from Christ to you.

The same love that Paul experienced of God in Jesus Christ is available to us. In Christ we have an anchor that keeps us steady through life storms, and a foundation that cannot be shaken. This love also gives us a powerful hope. Romans 8:28 promises us that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. Though everything in life will not be easy, every joy, pain, victory and loss will be used by God for our good and for His glory.

Assurance from God gives us the strength to face life‘s challenges and to trust that even when we don’t understand, God‘s love is working on our behalf. What does this mean for us today? It means that we can live without fear. Knowing that we are held by God‘s love, we don’t have to worry about being good enough for God‘s love because His love is already given or fear the future because God is already there holding us in His care.