The end of Romans 8 gives us the crescendo of assurance through confident assertions grounded in Christ that Paul is impressing upon us.  Though the world, our own flesh, and the devil may be against us, he is always on our side and will see us through.  Our salvation is secure, and this frees us up to love our enemies all the more because we know what and who they need.  

 

Scripture: Psalm 27, Romans 8:31-38

The well-known Romans 8:28 encapsulates much about God and His divine sovereignty and providence for all things and applies to every situation.  We can know that no matter the situation, we can be certain that God is using it for our good and his glory.  This applies to both a macro level through God's unfolding plan throughout redemptive history and on a personal level and the difficulties we face.  Though he may test, teach, humble and refine us, he has those who love him in each place for a good reason, and that allows us to be more patient and to trust and depend on him amid our trials.  

 

Scripture: Genesis 45:1-8, 50:15-21, Romans 8:18-28

Christians can be sure of their salvation as the Holy Spirit testifies, and He assures us even when we doubt.  We have earned the privilege to be heirs with Christ by having a relationship with God and all that comes with it, to suffer well with Him for Christ's sake, and to share in the glory that is to come, where we can be unashamed in His presence.  

 

Scripture: Psalm 119-73-80, Romans 8:12-17

Those who belong to Christ can be assured of their salvation by way of contrast with unbelievers.  The unbeliever doesn't factor God into their thoughts.  Morality becomes relative, ethics are situational, and there is no ultimate consistent standard by which they live.  By contrast, the believer has their mind set on things of the spirit, and all former "goals" of this life have become eclipsed by the love of Christ, and those things are no longer the basis for the Christian's identity.   We are no longer hostile to God but instead are at peace and in agreement with Him.

 

Scripture: Psalm 116:1-14, Romans 8:1-11

Because we're sinners, even as Christians, we will always have an ongoing battle against sin due to the barrage of temptations that come our way.   The struggle is real and should be expected in believers, but in Christ, who sets us free and gives us strength for battle, we should not be discouraged.  We must embrace the Holy Spirit and his Word and be in prayer and fellowship with other believers.  In this life, sin is not eradicated but is mitigated as we live for him. 

 

Scripture: Psalm 130, Romans 7:14-26