“We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.” (Romans 8:23)
Paul speaks of the suffering of creation; both the world as a whole and people in particular groan under it. Paul encourages the church: wait on God and place your hope in Him.
Believers are children of God, and together with Jesus, they are heirs of His Kingdom. God’s Spirit plays a vital role in this. Paul explains that believers become God’s children because the Spirit dwells in them. Through the Spirit, we can overcome the power of sin. This is essential, because much of the suffering in the world stems from human wrongdoing or negligence. And our influence can be greater than we often realize—especially when we act together as a community. Paul speaks three times about groaning:
- Creation itself groans. Everything God has made suffers from all forms of evil.
- We groan with creation. Many problems seem too big or too difficult to solve, even for believers, so we sigh alongside the world.
- The Holy Spirit groans with us. Not because God is powerless, but as a sign that He is in solidarity with us and all of creation.
Are you looking forward to God’s future with anticipation? Remember, the suffering of creation is not God’s intention. He made everything good, and everything will be made right again when Jesus returns!