May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
Romans 15:13 ESV
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39 ESV
Paul in Rome
When Paul arrived in Rome - under the chains of a prisoner - the local Jews were not particularly hostile toward him. Certainly, they had heard the Christian ‘sect’ being spoken against, but they were keen to hear from Paul. They gave him opportunity, too.
I can just imagine how his lodgings must have quickly become overcrowded as each day passed and word spread. Increasing numbers of people were curious to hear his arguments. Paul taught from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets, pointing them to Jesus: the hope of Israel. Of those who listened, many believed. This must have spurred Paul on and convinced him that it was worthwhile staying long after he was released from custody.
Yet, there were those who heard and did not believe. Paul does not appear to be completely disheartened, instead he recognised the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy from the Holy Spirit. He continued to preach, teach and exhort to the Jews and to the Gentiles.
Bible Reading Plan: Day 23
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28.
I’m not suggesting life will be all good, or even mostly good. There’s comfort in the knowledge that when we are ‘called according to his purpose’ there is a bigger picture than the one we see. I cannot expect my life to be characterised by moment after moment of happiness, but I can expect to find contentment and fulfilment in bringing my purpose into alignment with His.
