Overwhelmed

Text: Romans 8:35-39

Theme: Nothing can separate us from His love.

Key verses: “Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love?” (v. 35) “No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow–not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below–indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord” (v. 38-39).

What God said to me: Good morning son! Good to hear from you and meet with you on this bright, beautiful Sunday morning! Hope you are enjoying your writing retreat in the mountains of North Carolina. I have enjoyed blessing you with the time, health and energy to be there. The new book you are writing is something I have initiated. Don’t worry about who will read it. Just be faithful to write it. I’ll take care of the rest. That’s how I am, you know. I can handle any and every problem or concern you have. I love you with an everlasting love, and I am big enough to carry through with that love. I will always be with you, guiding you, helping you, comforting you, communing with you as friend with friend. Why would I do that? Because I love you unconditionally and eternally. You don’t have to get your affirmation or worth from other people or from your accomplishments or status or appearance. None of those matter when you realize how much I love you and am for you. Regardless of what people may think of you or do to you, I am still on your side, pulling for you, cheering you on to the finish line. I heard your inner musing early this morning before you got out of bed. I know you are wondering if there is still a chance you might hear me say, “Well done.” Keep this in mind: I want to tell you that. I want you to hear those words. I am the author and finisher of your faith. My Son is interceding right now on your behalf, and I gave you my Spirit to live in you and through you. Besides, my mercies are new every morning. So yes, you can still hear “Well done.” As long as you have life and breath, you have my love and favor on you. And when your breath and body expire, my love will carry you to me, to dwell with me forever. Be overwhelmed by your victory in me today. Be overcome by my love.

What I said to God: Again I am almost speechless, LORD. What could I have possibly done to deserve such love and favor? Nothing. That’s the answer. I have done nothing, and yet, You love me beyond imagination. You love my family and friends. You love this world, enough to die for it. You are awesome and holy God, and You are also my Friend that sticks closer than a brother. Wow, I am (somewhat) overwhelmed. May I be more and more broken and grateful for Your incredible grace and mercy. May I never take my eyes off of You, but look full in Your wonderful face all the days of my life.