Future Glory
Scripture Reading: Romans 8:18–30 (ESV)
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.
20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope
21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.
22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.
23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees?
25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.
Paul gives a breathtaking perspective: the suffering we endure now cannot compare to the glory that awaits us. Not only are we longing for that day, but creation itself is groaning for the moment when all things will be set right.
In our weakness, the Spirit steps in to help, interceding for us according to God’s will when we do not even know how to pray. This passage is anchored in the unshakable truth that God is working all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
The ultimate goal is that we would be conformed to the image of Jesus, and the process from calling to glorification is entirely in God’s hands. That is our hope, and it is certain.
Prayer Points:
Thank God for the hope of future glory that outweighs present suffering.
Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen your patience as you wait for His promises.
Pray for trust in God’s purpose, even when life’s circumstances are difficult.