Romans chapter 2 verse 7 (NIV)
To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honour and immortality, he will give eternal life.
Romans chapter 2 verse 13 (NIV)
For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous.
You know that old saying, “if at first you don’t succeed…?” Well I prefer the Scottish version – lf at first you don’t succeed, persevere and keep the heid.” As with everything else in this life, we also need to persevere with our Christian walk, even when things seem difficult. This verse in Romans 2:7 is to me confirmation that it’s not, as some believe,
“once saved always saved.” Paul teaches that if we persist in doing good, that is by following God’s ways, then we will receive eternal life. We don’t have licence to ignore God’s ways. As Paul further teaches in verse 13 of this chapter, hearing God’s word doesn’t make us righteous. We must obey God’s word. So let’s stick at it. God has great things in store for us if we do.
Dear Lord,
I pray for stickability and the will to persevere, not in my own strength but in Yours. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.