And Not Only That

Posted on December 24, 2019 by Catey Stover in Freedom Fighters

“And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.” Romans 5:11

A key ingredient to walking in victory is gratitude and gratitude leads to rejoicing. Gratitude in knowing you have been granted something that is not deserved. I remember getting advice from a friend when I was struggling to maintain a solid faith that leads to the victorious Christian life. They said, “It’s easy, fall in love with Jesus”. Easier said than done.

I think most of us would say we love Jesus, but I found it difficult at first. I loved His blessings and of course the idea of going to Heaven but I was having trouble connecting that to the Person. After serious soul searching, I discovered that I was taking His forgiveness for granted. I remember reading Romans chapter 5, it opened my eyes to the reality that my sin, “It’s not good, but it’s ok”.

I remember my son wanting to play basketball, the problem is he could reach the hoop. Some suggested that I buy him a hoop that is lower so he could reach it. As I thought about it, I decided that he needs to understand that the standards of basketball require a 10’ rim. I explained to him that by lowering the standard I would be cheating him from reaching his goal. He stood there frustrated until I picked him up and let him throw the ball in the required height of the rim. It then dawned on me that God’s standards are not lowered for me, the bar is set, however, because I can’t attain His standards, He has to help me by covering for my shortcomings. I love that and now I love Him!

“And not only that” but we are reconciled to God. An exchange has been made so now we don’t have to reach the rim. The realization that sin is a big deal to God should cause us to be grateful which should lead to an affectionate love towards God. “and not only that” means the work of the cross brings us into relationship. A relationship requires commitment and commitment is only desirable when it’s driven by love.

If today you’re feeling frustrated because you can’t reach the rim of acceptance or the issues of life have you pinned down, know that God will lift you above the rim to make the shot. He desires to be our “Go to” when we are weak. Understand that although our sin is not good, through the forgiveness by the blood of Christ, He makes it ok. Amen!

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri and serves with her as full-time staff members. He is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can reach him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org.

---

Think About This: “Relying on God has to start all over every day as if nothing has yet been done.”  –C. S. Lewis

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the doctrinal and theological views held by America’s Keswick.