Today’s readings were from John 1:16, Romans 8:31–32, Ephesians 1:3–8, and James 1:5.

The passage I journaled on was Romans 8:31–32:

“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?”

God’s Purposes Despite Suffering

When Paul asks, “What shall we say to these things?” he is referring to God’s purposes that remain steady even in the midst of trials. If God is for us, then who or what can stand against us?

The ultimate evidence of God’s love is that He did not spare His own Son. Jesus was the greatest gift ever given—so why wouldn’t God also give us the smaller gifts too?

This connects with Ephesians 1:3–8, which tells us that God has already “blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” The greatest gift has already been given, and with Him comes everything we truly need to live out His purpose.

Grace Upon Grace

John 1:16 says:

“From His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.”

God’s grace flows without interruption. As one season of grace comes to an end, another begins. When He leads us into a new space, His grace for that season is already waiting.

This truth encourages me to embrace change instead of fearing it. His grace is limitless and always timely—it never runs out.

Wisdom in Trials

James 1:5 reminds us that we don’t often realize our need for wisdom until we’re already in a trial. Knowledge gives information, but wisdom shows us how to use it.

We need wisdom to discern whether to ask God to remove a trial, or to trust Him for the strength to persevere through it. And while books, teachers, and mentors can guide us, true wisdom begins and ends with God’s Word.

Stop Looking for the Gifts

As I meditated on Romans 8:31–32, the Holy Spirit spoke these words to me:

“Stop looking for the gifts. The gifts you ask for are much smaller than what I desire to give. You cannot comprehend what I have in store for you, so stop putting Me in a box. Every gift comes with a weight of responsibility. I am equipping you now so that when the time comes, you will be able to carry it. If I release the gift too soon, it could crush you. Keep your eyes on the purpose, not just the gift. My purpose will prevail, no matter the opposition.”

This reminder shifted my perspective: the gifts I pray for are not the end goal—His purpose is. And His timing is not to withhold, but to prepare.

Facing Opposition

This scripture has been especially real for me lately. As I continue to share my faith online, I’ve faced hateful comments that sometimes make me pause. And honestly, the anticipation of more comments weighs even heavier—especially as I prepare to release a podcast episode this week where I share something deeply vulnerable from my past that I’ve never spoken about publicly before.

But Romans 8:31 reminds me: If God is for me, who can be against me? Their words cannot cancel His calling. Their opinions cannot override His purpose. And even in moments where fear tries to silence me, His grace gives me the courage to keep moving forward.

Making It Personal

In my journaling, I wrote this application:

With all I know about God’s purpose in my life, why do I give so much weight to the opinions of those who oppose me? Romans 8:31–32 says He has given me all things—including the capacity to deal with opposition.

This means I need to recite this scripture whenever opposition comes, especially in the form of hateful comments. God has already equipped me with the grace to handle it, and His purpose for me will prevail.

A Practical Challenge

This week, I encourage you to:

1. Write down one area where you’ve been asking God for a “gift.”
2. Ask Him: is this something You want to release now, or are You still equipping me for it?
3. When opposition comes—whether through people’s words or the enemy’s lies—declare Romans 8:31 out loud: “If God is for me, who can be against me?”

Prayer

Father God, thank You for the ultimate gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus. Forgive me for the times I’ve taken my eyes off You and focused too much on opposition. Thank You for reminding me that their voices are irrelevant compared to Your Word. Your plans for my life and ministry will prevail as long as I remain in You. Thank You for equipping and refining me so that when the time comes, I will be able to carry the weight of responsibility that comes with all You have in store. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*Takeaway: If God is for you, nothing and no one can stand against His purpose for your life. His grace is sufficient, His timing is perfect, and His plans will prevail.

Resources I Use

These are a few tools that help me stay rooted in the Word during my quiet time:

• Love God Greatly SOAP Journal – my favorite way to study scripture through Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.
• Black Post-it Notes + Metallic Pens – I write memory verses on these and keep them nearby as daily reminders of God’s promises.
• Bible App + Enduring Word Commentary – so helpful for comparing translations and understanding scripture more deeply.

I pray these resources encourage you as you walk boldly in God’s purposes. 💛