S128P7 – That which lies within: the groans of hope
Rom. 8:22-25
For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.
We hear the same things whenever the latest major earthquake or volcanic eruption takes place. The Earth is acting up like an agry child who cannot be calmed down. People wonder whether this planet is turning on itself and heading on an inevitable course toward destruction. An atmosphere of worry and fear can hang over these speculative conversations, and there is good reason for those who do not know what God has foretold about this world. Watching these events unfold can be scary, but we need not fear. These are the groans of a world longing to be restored, and our very bodies share in these groans. That which has been physically damaged by the fall desires to be made perfect again.
There is no doubt that the physical and the spiritual are closely related in this world. Because of disobedience bringing negative spiritual consequences, this world is physically imperfect, which is not how it was designed. This is why our future holds a new heavens and a new Earth, because the word says that renewal and restoration instead of destruction are inevitable. [2 Pet. 3:1-13] Our bodies are no less physically imperfect as a result of the fall, and we have restored vessels awaiting us as well according to the word. [Php. 3:17-21] In the spirit, these bodies groan just as the Earth. It is the spiritual call from that which was meant to be perfect asking for its former perfection to return.
My body never has been perfect, and neither has yours, but humanity once walked in perfect form and function. Collectively, our bodies long to be returned to that perfect state. Disease is not natural. Disability is not natural. Degradation over time is not natural. We were made to exist much differently, and these physical vessels recognize that. Knowing the prophecies of restoration from the Lord, that longing for us becomes our clear hope. We know that perfection awaits, and our spirits confirm that faith. Father, help us to take our faith for restoration and renewal, for your promise of perfection, to those who have been deceived to think that only destruction awaits all things.