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“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” (Romans 12:6-8, NIV)

We hinder the work of God in this world when we “play out of position.”

Writing about the diverse gifts of the members of the family of God, Paul encourages us to esteem whatever gift we’ve been given; and he discourages the pettiness and competitiveness that takes root when we lament the skills and abilities we have not been given.

Over time, we become aware of our gifts. Let us also be aware that our knowledge, skills, and abilities are gifts to us from God; but not for our own benefit. We must “play in position” in order for the whole of God’s family to do what God needs it do; and to be what God needs it be. – Luther

Tagged employment of gifts, the book of Romans

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“Now if we are children, then we are heirs — heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:17-18, NIV)

The way of Christ is the way of the cross.

The way of the cross is the way of suffering, as defined as “sustaining injury, disadvantage, loss, or any unpleasantness.”

As disciples of Jesus, it is our lot to suffer; not for the sake of suffering, but in order to identify with Christ as He identifies with the persons that God created, and for whom He (Christ) died.

Remember this as an encouragement to suffer — with grace — all physical and emotional injuries; to suffer — with hope — each loss; to suffer — with patience — the unpleasantness of others; to suffer — with peace — the appearance of disadvantage.

Paul reminds us that every and each of our present sufferings — whatever they may be — pale in comparison to the glory that will be revealed in us when we see God, face-to-face.

For each hurt, there is healing. For each loss, there is a greater gain; for every humiliation, a revelation of unassailable greatness. – Luther

Tagged God's glory, suffering, the book of Romans, the way of the cross

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“You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:6-8, NIV)

God’s love for all of us is unconditional — particularly those who have no use for God.

The noted German pastor, Martin Niemoller (1982-1984) said: “It took me a long time to learn that God is not the enemy of my enemies. He is not even the enemy of His enemies.” The enemies of Niemoller’s reference were the Nazis. While he had good reason to hate Hitler and his ilk, Niemoller knew that for Christ’s sake, he had no excuse.

We must take to heart that if God chooses reconciliation with His enemies, we, too, must choose reconciliation with both our enemies, and the enemies of God.

Paul’s letter to the Roman Christians is a pointed reminder of God’s love for all persons; and our obligation to follow our heavenly Father’s example. – Luther

Tagged God's love for everyone, Martin Niemoller, the book of Romans