“What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)

Romans 8 contains one of the most inspirational of the Pauline discourses. Verse 18 tells us that “…that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” Verse 28 reminds us that we know “all things” are working together for our good. The Apostle then shows from the fact of election (verses 29-30) that God is, without question, for us.

This does not mean that there will not be sufferings. It is inevitable in our Christian walk that the opposition will come (Matthew 18:7). The very fact of living godly in an ungodly world makes those “in Christ Jesus” targets for persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). Jesus Himself told His disciples. “..In the world ye shall have tribulation” but is very assuring when He finishes this statement with the note: “but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

We are reminded that our battle is not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12), but neither is our Victory obtained by any other than the Flesh (Body) and Blood of Jesus Christ. It is important to keep in mind that the battle belongs to the Lord (1 Samuel 17:47). In and out of the many trials, temptations, distresses, and storms life brings us, we know that “…we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” (Romans 8:37)

But how can we be conquerors when it seems as though there is no hope of overcoming the obstacles placed in front of us? When the world appears too strong to withstand, we can rest, knowing that the Lord lives within us, and “…greater is he that is in you [us], than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4). It is the Lord in us that conquers the world; it is the Lord in us that overcomes the trials, sufferings, and pains of the world.

The Apostle Paul’s affirmation of the Lord’s Presence and Providence in the life of the child of God is the basis for hope to those enduring grief. Paul poses the question that Christians in First-Century Rome needed to hear, as they began to be persecuted. It is unquestionable that God is for us. Who then, can be against us?

Like our early brethren, we too can face trials without losing hope knowing that no one can be against us, because God is for us.