MORE than conquerors

Scripture:

Romans 8:35-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? (36) As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." (37) No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. (38) For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, (39) neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Observation:

These words were written to a church that would soon undergo terrible persecution. In just a few years, Paul's hypothetical situations would turn into painful realities. This passage reaffirms God's profound love for his people. No matter what happens to us, no matter where we are, we can never be separated from his love. Suffering should not drive us away from God but help us to identify with him and allow his love to heal us.

Application:

These verses contain one of the most comforting promises in all Scripture. Believers have always had to face hardships in many forms: persecution, illness, imprisonment, and even death. These sometimes cause them to fear that they have been abandoned by Christ. But Paul exclaims that it is impossible to be separated from Christ. His death for us is proof of his unconquerable love. Nothing can separate us from Christ's presence. God tells us how great his love is so that we will feel totally secure in him. If we believe these overwhelming assurances, we will not be afraid.

One of my favorite songs (among many) is "We've been made more than conquerors". I have placed the lyrics below. As you read them, please remember that God is on FOR you, not AGAINST you:

We've been made more than conquerors, Overcomers in this life.
We've been made victorious. Through the blood of Jesus Christ!

When troubles come knocking' at your door, Don't be afraid, you know it's not like before.
Don't you give in, don't let it bring you down. Cause you don't have to worry anymore!

Hold on, we're getting stronger everyday. There's no reason for you to go astray.
Don't go leaning to your understanding, Cause you don't have to worry anyway!

Prayer:

"Lord, thank you for making me MORE than a conqueror. Your Word reminds me that nothing can separate me from Your love. No matter what I face today, you will not leave be, but you will walk with me...and comfort me. I love you Lord, and recognize Your presence and help today. In Jesus' name, amen!"