All good things come to those who wait - O mea lelei uma e oo mai i ē faatalitali

Scripture Focus: Roma 8:18-27

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which will be revealed toward us. For the creation waits with eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to vanity, not of its own will, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of decay into the liberty of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now. Not only so, but ourselves also, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in hope, but hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for that which he sees? But if we hope for that which we don’t see, we wait for it with patience. In the same way, the Spirit also helps our weaknesses, for we don’t know how to pray as we ought. But the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can’t be uttered. He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit’s mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according to God.
- Romans 8:18-27 (WEB)

Study:

Paul is painting a picture of cosmic hope. He argues that the suffering we experience now pales in comparison to the future glory awaiting believers. Importantly, this isn’t just about *our* future, but the future of all creation. The creation itself “groans” under the weight of sin and decay, longing for the moment when God’s children are fully revealed and creation is redeemed. This ‘groaning’ isn’t a sign of despair, but of expectation. We, as believers possessing the Spirit, also share in this groaning, a longing for the complete fulfillment of our salvation – the redemption of our bodies. This verse reminds us that hope isn’t about clinging to what we already have; it’s about passionately anticipating what *will* be. Even when we struggle to pray, the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf, communicating our deepest longings to God.

Application:

Life often feels filled with hardship and unanswered questions. We can easily become discouraged when facing trials or feeling the weight of the world’s problems. This passage reminds us that our suffering is temporary and purposeful. It’s part of a larger story of redemption. Instead of succumbing to despair, we can hold onto the hope offered through Jesus Christ, knowing that God is actively working towards a glorious future. The Holy Spirit empowers us to persevere, even when we feel weak or unable to articulate our needs. He bridges the gap between our limitations and God’s perfect will.

Reflection Questions:

• What areas of your life feel particularly burdened by suffering or hardship right now?
• How does understanding the ‘groaning’ of creation impact your perspective on your own struggles?
• In what ways can you actively cultivate a spirit of hopeful expectation, even in the midst of challenges?
• How does the knowledge that the Spirit intercedes for us bring comfort and peace?
• Are you relying on the Holy Spirit to guide your prayers and understand your deepest needs?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Help us to endure suffering with patience and trust, knowing that you are working all things together for good. Empower us with your Spirit to live lives of joyful anticipation, eagerly awaiting the full revelation of your glory. Help us to surrender our burdens to you and trust in your perfect timing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tags: Romans 8, hope, suffering, Holy Spirit, redemption, Christian life, patience, prayer, waiting, longing, faith, restoration, future glory