In this sermon, we learned that even when we are facing trials and tribulations, we should never stop serving God and others. Just like Paul (who was accused from all sides, shipwrecked, beaten, and endured all sorts of other trials) we should continue to bless those around us, even if they do not deserve it or are even part of our suffering. We should also remember that God has had mercy on us and spared us from the consequences of our sins. We should, therefore, be grateful for His love and grace and strive to love and serve others in return.
“Covenant” isn’t a word we often use in our relationships, but a covenant is what frames up God’s relationship with His people. It is a commitment built up on relationship, which is why we call it the “covenant of marriage.” It is not simply a contract or formal business agreement, but a relational commitment on both sides for mutual benefit. On our own, we don’t live lives that are perfectly integrated...lives in covenant relationship. We all fall short, each one of us, every day. But this is the miracle of rebirth: When we are born again, we are regenerated, and when we are regenerated, we are integrated. When we are hidden in Christ, we are integrated into His righteousness, His character, and His perfection and purity. We now walk by faith in confidence that we are in Him.
