Convinced

“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” (Romans 8:38).

Paul gives us a helpful word to cling to here: convinced. It is the key to being freed from every doubt about God’s favor toward us.

Even when we have lingering doubts, God’s grace flows freely to heal us. It happened for the disciple Thomas, who doubted his friends when they said Jesus was alive. Thomas represents a lot of Christians today. They once believed in Christ and rejoiced as they saw God transforming lives. But then came a lingering trial that dragged on for years.

These Christians still go to church and hear sermons about God’s goodness. But something inside them has died and they can’t resurrect it. The lingering disappointment of their long, dismal setback has beaten them down too far.

Is this you? Jesus wants to come to you just as he did to Thomas. He wants to show you his scars from the worst possible trial. He wants the power of his resurrection to raise you to life in a way you could never do for yourself. He comes to convince you of his eternal Word — to demonstrate through his resurrection that nothing will ever derail you from his kingdom purpose: “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” (8:39).

Because of Jesus’ loving grace, Thomas believed again and became one of the most impactful of all the disciples. Jesus withheld nothing from Thomas when his friend needed to believe again. Jesus also calls you his friend, and he has withheld nothing to keep you in his love. He brings resurrection life to you in the midst of your trial and, like Thomas, you will see his glory again and be amazed.