Filled and Overflowing
Today’s scripture selection: Romans 15-16
Key verses: Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
“I’VE HAD IT UP TO HERE!”
Maybe you heard someone exclaim like this recently. Maybe you heard yourself saying it. Sometimes, no matter how we try, we’ve just had it – we reach our boiling point.
The apostle Paul would have been justified in using these words.
His life was one punctuated by the attacks of critics; the abuse of those who would silence him; the hardships of the road; the loneliness of being a prophet whose message was often ignored. And, after years of dedicated service, what did it earn him? – a beheading – courtesy of Rome.
And yet this servant of God never lost his spirit and never gave up hope. Despite everything he faced in service to his Lord, he could send a benediction to fellow believers that began this way:
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him…”
In other words, may they find the same joy and peace, grounded in hope eternal, that Paul had himself found.
That realization never ceases to lift me up.
When I am tempted to say that I’ve “had it,” I am reminded that, compared to some who have been called, I have experienced very little hardship. In fact, most of my days have been graciously overflowing with the blessing and support of friends; a gratifying and fruitful ministry; and the incomparable love of God – expressed through family and friends.
How about you? Have you “had it”? Or can you prayerfully, gratefully acknowledge that life – and God – have been good to you – especially in the hard times?
If so – then are one of the blessed – who have been filled to overflowing by the grace of God. Give thanks.
Prayer: Everlasting, ever loving God, thank you for the hope that comes from you, day after day. AMEN.
IGW3 - In God's Word, In God's Will, In God's Work 