Romans - Part 5: ELECTIONSample

Instant Gratification

Most of us struggle with the desire to have instant gratification. We can get it through our phones (as long as we look in the right places), media ( at least I’m better than that guy), and our friends (always someone to encourage us). But, what about our faith? Our relationship with the Triune God, creator of heaven and earth? He is our ultimate source of gratification!

Many of us are involved in farming in this community, some commercially and some in our yard or garden. As we plant our seeds or trees, we fully expect that not every one of them will result in fruit for our labor. That’s why many gardeners tend to plant radishes; they emerge quickly and are ready for harvest before anything else; Even if we don’t like them, they bring a sense of gratification.

The gospel is very similar. We are called to generously “spread” the gospel and let God take it from there. Our human nature, however, wants 100% success from our work, especially when we really care about those to whom we are spreading the Good News. We consider them the fertile soil where we are sowing seeds, but only God can make those seeds grow. We need to trust HIM to grow that seed. But, we will pray without ceasing for HIS salvation in their lives and even those seeds cast upon the rocky ground. Our God can do ALL things!

Paul references Isaiah in this passage: Isaiah was frustrated that the Israelites were not fully following God’s will for their lives. Sound familiar?? In the previous chapter, Isaiah references Christ in 52:7, but we can also have those beautiful feet like Christ.

We have all fallen short of God’s grace; only through Christ’s sacrifice can we feel heard and close to God. How can we expect OUR words to instantly change the heart of an unbeliever? Only God can change that heart to serve HIM. That said, we are called to not only speak the Word but also to Live the Word. Our actions often speak louder than words and are part of the way we “spread” the gospel.

Strive to live that out each and every day and let God take it from there. Our God is an Awesome God!

-Simon Vander Woude