Romans 8 is arguably the grandest chapter in the Bible. It begins by reminding us that there is no more condemnation for those in Christ and it ends by assuring us that nothing can separate us from God’s love. It’s kind of hard to improve on that. But Romans 8 doesn’t just begin and end with a bang. It has fireworks throughout. Virtually every verse is a goldmine of spiritual truth.
There are two times in Romans 8 when Paul uses the phrase “we know.” That phrase is used about 13 times in the whole book, and two of those are in the 8th chapter. That phrase translated “we know”, which is used 13 times in the book of Romans does not mean “we hope” or “we wish” or “we want” or “we guess” or “we desire” or “most likely”. No. It means “we know”. It’s a settled assurance. It’s a solid confidence. Paul speaks with conviction and unshakeable certainty.
But what are the two things that Paul is absolutely sure about? Consider these two verses:
Romans 8:22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.
Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
It seems to me that Paul asserts two things in this chapter that he has a settled confidence about: Life is hard and God is good.
Numerous people have asked me, “Pastor, what do you think the New Year will hold for us? Are times going to get a lot tougher for believers? Are we in the last of the last of the last days? Is the cosmic battle going to heat up big time in 2010?
Listen, I don’t know much about what’s coming, but I’m very confident of this: the people who will represent Jesus the best in 2010 are the people who have a solid, settled conviction about two things: Life is hard and God is good.
Do you know that? Do you have that solid conviction?
Insight for the Journey 
Pastor Rex,
I am always encouraged by your clear and sure interpretation of scripture. I share your interpretationof Romans. That certainty enables me to clean house as Linda Hobson has taught me. To enter each patient’s room with a focused fresh attitude, and to focus on what Jesus wants me to do. Of course influenced by my limited mind…
This is also an opportunity to thank you for your words at a recent 101 class. Your clear articulation of essential beliefs and the difference between that and the preferences and convictions is most useful for us to remain clearly focused upon.
We are grateful for your leadership and you and Debbie holding hands as you walk out. What a strong marriage!
Paula Crehan,NP
Rex, As always your message hits the nail right on the head. God just needs you to hammer it in.Thank you