Good morning. OK so we have been justified – now what? Having been justified by faith (not works), we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Having peace with God is a big deal. (that is not the same thing as having the peace of God). Through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations. Now wait a minute Paul! I get that we exult in hope of the glory of God, but exulting in our tribulations??? Why: knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance. Isn’t that kind of like praying for patience, and then getting situations in which you need to be patient? What does perseverance bring about – proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Do we have to go through all of that? Can’t we just get our fire insurance and then just slide along? The phrase translated “poured out“ is in the perfect tense. Remember that means it is an action that was completed in the past that has an effect in the present. The love of God was poured out within our hearts when we were saved; and its effect in our present life is that we can’t help but feel and share that love with others. Father thank You that You poured out Your love within us. Help us to show that love towards others and to share it with them.

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