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Today's readings: 2 Chron 11:1-13:22, Romans 8:26-39, Psalm 18:37-50, Proverbs 19:27-29

Well, we go from one of the most quoted verses in the whole Bible (Rom. 8:28) to probably one of the least: Proverbs 19:29 which says: "The backs of fools are made for beating."

Let's focus on Romans.

So Paul says some powerful things today. He says that nothing can separate us from the love of God.

Now, before we start quoting this out of context (which happens every day), let's look at what this DOESN'T mean. Paul is not saying that since God is for us, we will get everything we want. It doesn't necessarily mean we'll even be healthy. In fact, it doesn't even mean we won't die.

How do we know this? Because he says so right in these verses. He says that we WILL face problems in our lives. And that we will die. But that even death itself won't separate us from God's love.

That may sound odd to you if you're in good health and have nice things and your family is healthy and safe. It might not be very comforting. But when (not if) the moment comes when you're staring death in the face... when life takes a turn and you're left wondering what is next, what you can do... this verse will bring strength, joy, and power into your life.

Because it means that God's love, even though it IS for the here and now, is not primarily for the here and now. It's for all of time. Our bodies will eventually fall apart and we'll die. It's not a fun thing, but it's part of our lives now that sin has taken its toll on us. But even though that will happen, we don't need to be afraid. We can trust Him through the most difficult, scary, unpleasant things that can happen to us. Because He will be there for us. He will strengthen us, and love us. And He will, ultimately, save us.

Thank You, God, for loving me so much that it transcends death.