More Than____Sample

MORE THAN YOU HOPED

Previously, we considered verse 34 and how Jesus is constantly interceding for us, despite our own outlook on our situation. The question that follows in verse 35 is a stark reminder that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ, for this very reason: Jesus is constantly thinking of us and believing for us, no matter what trial we face. While we may not be facing ‘famine’ or ‘swords’ in our western context, life is by no means perfect and we may all have moments when we question how close Jesus is to us.

Feeling a sense of doubt about Jesus in times of trial is something that many, if not all, Christians feel at one time or another in their lives. We all have our, “Father, why have you forsaken me?” moments. We were born into a broken world that the devil will use to try to trip us up at any moment. One way he does this is by highlighting situations that make us question the love that God has for us. The truth is that God loves you more than you can imagine, just look at these scriptures: Isaiah 54:10, 1 John 3:1, and Ephesians 3:18-19. As verse 35 states, nothing can separate us from God's love, even when we feel distant or tired. The troubles that the devil tries to put in our way pale in comparison to God’s love.

Paul even says here that we are not sheep being sent to slaughter, instead, we are more than conquerors through God who loves us. Through him! As usual, our answer to life’s problems is in the love of God. The moment we decide to trust God, no matter our circumstance, we become conquerors. 

God’s love comes with the promise that he will never leave nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6), so we can take heart knowing that he is ever-present, even in the midst of our suffering. He does not promise good things to tease us. His word is true and does not lie, so we can confidently trust that we will not be separated from him as long as we choose to fix our eyes on him rather than our circumstance. As soon as we choose to ignore the lies of the enemy, we already have our victory.

Questions:  

1. What is in your field of view right now? Is it your circumstance, or is it God?  
2. Think about a time when you have felt the love of God. Do you need to ask God to help you find your way back to this place of comfort?  
3. What circumstance can you submit to God right now to make room for his love and peace to enter your life?