Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,

There are so many glorious truths in this chapter, it’s very difficult to choose one verse to write on! I settled on this one because so many people are obviously at war with God. The futility of that goes without saying, since He is omnipotent and we aren’t, but this is just another demonstration of human stupidity. The thing of it is, God has prepared the way for peace, but we have to first of all desire it, then believe it is possible, and finally, humble ourselves to accept it. I am reminded of the current negotiations with Hamas in Gaza. The offer is on the table, but Hamas has to accept the conditions, and at this point, their hatred of the Jews is still in the way. Sadly, many people seem to hate God, not for any logical reason, but simply because they aren’t Him. Human hubris knows no bounds! That people would choose to remain at war with their Creator, damaging Him in no way and benefiting themselves in no way, is beyond comprehension, but that is the way things are. If anything, the demonstrations of hatred for God seem to be increasing, and it is tragic. The problem for people who love God is that the people who hate Him, being unable to damage God directly, often turn against the people who love him, generating persecution of all sorts and even martyrdom. For those who are at peace with God through faith, the task and privilege is to share the news that such peace is possible with those who don’t yet have it. Some people will receive that news with joy, some people will outright reject it, preferring to nurture their hatred for God, and some will struggle to believe that it is even possible. We aren’t to give up, whatever the reception might be, but continue to pray for all we encounter, that they might be given the gift of repentance and faith, for their salvation and God’s glory.

As I have written, God has recently been opening my eyes to see the joy of sharing. In the past I have hesitated, because so few received, but He is giving me joy even in the sharing. Yesterday I invited a friend to join the Family of God, but he still has trouble believing it is possible for him. I was able to assure him of my love for him, and I think he believes that, having known me for several years now. I continue to pray that his eyes would be opened to see, not just his own need, but God’s overwhelming supply. Most of the people with whom I share the Gospel don’t really understand that they need it, but that’s not his case. I need to keep praying that he will have a revelation of the love of God that will wipe out all his hesitation.

Father, thank You for what You did yesterday in my interaction with my friend. Help him understand that You aren’t at war with him, so that he will let down his guard and accept the salvation that You so freely offer, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!