2026 Pentecost Devotions I
Thursday, July 16
Romans 8:18-25
18 I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God, 20 for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its enslavement to decay and will obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning together as it suffers together the pains of labor, 23 and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope, for who hopes for what one already sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
“… 18 I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. …”
Waiting is difficult, especially when the whole world seems to be crashing down around you. Whether the crisis involves money, relationships, vocation, or life in general, when everything is happening fast, and disaster looms, patience sometimes is a fleeting emotion.
That is why it is important, as Paul says, that we continue to look to the Gospel for strength and support. We know that God is with us, and that God has named and claimed us through the waters of baptism. We trust that God continues to breathe life into us, and that the Holy Spirit abides with us to bring us light, hope, and peace. We hold the promise of God’s presence near to our heart and soul.
When that is where we live, even the most distressing times can be endured. Even though the world is crashing down, the foundation of our faith in God’s presence and promise remains unshaken. Like that proverbial house built upon the rock, despite the crashing waves which, at times, seem to overwhelm us, we remain securely planted upon the Rock who is Christ.
Waiting is difficult. Yet, knowing what we know about God’s presence and God’s promise, and believing in the grace of God which overshadows and embraces us, we can and will prevail. That’s because it’s not about our ability to endure, but about God’s gracious love that hold us fast.
Prayer: Lord, when the world seems to be crashing down, remind me of Your loving presence and Your eternal promises, that despair may be cast out and hope abound because of You. Amen.