A
paradox is a statement or situation where two things that contradict each other
appear to be true. One example, my
favorite, is the sign that reads “Keep door closed at all times.” How can we keep the door closed if we use it
as a door? It must open at some time or
another.
Another
example is the statement, “This sentence is a lie.” If the sentence is true then it is a
lie. If it is a lie, then it can’t be a
lie.
I feel
this may be the case with Paul’s comment in Romans. What does he say about our relationship with
God?
On the
surface this comment is intended to be a reassurance to us. If God is on our side then it is not possible
for others to be in opposition to us.
Since God is the Almighty and everlasting Lord, if He is on our side
then there can be no one who is against us.
But I
believe that in truth there may be many people who are against us even when God
is “for us.” The difference is that it
doesn’t matter who or what is against us if God is on our side.
We who
believe in the Lord are not spared our times of trouble and pain. We will probably encounter those who do not
like us for one reason or another. There
will likely be those who find some delight in causing us heartache. And there is simply the occurrence of random
events – accidents happen, loved ones pass away, tempers flare up, life brings
its share of unhappiness.
If God
is for us, who or what can be against us?
Truthfully many things and many people might be a problem for us. But we have the reassurance of knowing that
we have a companion, a defender, an advocate, a comforter in our Lord. God has promised to be with us as we walk
through the fires of life. He has
promised to save us from the deep waters of life’s troubles.
If God
is for us, even though there may be many things that seem to work against us,
things and people and situations that are there to cause us hurt and stress, it
will not matter. God is with us. He is “for us.” And knowing that enables us to get through
all the hurt and heartache of living.
DAILY CHALLENGE: What will remind you that God is “for” you?
