by Adam Johnson
The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. Romans 8:16-17
These chapters written by Paul are some of the deepest and most powerful chapters of Scripture. Paul delves into things that tell the believer all the benefits of being a Christian. He speaks of the indwelling Holy Spirit that is given to us upon our salvation. Our position is one of an heir as a child of God - we have the same position before God as Christ Himself. However, there is a criteria that Paul clarifies for all believers that is a reminder of our place in the world. The Holy Spirit is there to help us in these times of trial as he speaks later in the chapter.
The believer who is growing and seeking the will of God has an inner confidence that comes from the Spirit of God within them. They have peace because their position before God is secure. It tells us that even our suffering is for a reason because during the times of greatest duress we know God is closest to us. That suffering also shows the unbelieving world around us that we have a Hope that surpasses all of their understanding. Paul tells us in the very next verse that no suffering we endure can compare with the reality of eternity before us. Christlikeness is the goal of every believer - to be like the One who gave us righteous standing before God. Nothing should shake our confidence in this life because we are continuing on to that day when we stand complete in Christ before God.
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18
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