For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth until now. And not only this, but also we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. Romans 8:22-23 NASB
As I look out the window on this bright winter's day, I wonder what creation would look like if it were free from the curse placed on it because of Adam and Eve. I wonder if we would even have winter. I wonder if we would have snow. Would the leaves on the trees still wither and fall to the ground leaving the naked and bare branches behind for a season? In an incorruptible world would the green grass turn brown and lie dormant as it waits for the warm weather to return? If nature could in fact "groan", I wonder what it would say.
As a part of God's creation, I can't speak for the plants and animals, but I can at least speak for myself. I am waiting eagerly for the full benefits of adoption into God's family. After all, the bible says that as a Christian I am an heir of God.
For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!"
The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of god, and if children, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.
Romans 8:14-17 NASB
But we must wait for our inheritance because it is in heaven and not on earth. Our full adoption as sons and daughters of God culminates with new bodies, spiritual bodies, that can inherit the kingdom of God. This is our ultimate hope. The day when corruptible becomes incorruptible. This is what we are all eagerly waiting for, aren't we? Even creation itself. It will be then that death will be swallowed up in victory. (1 Cor 15:55) It will be then that we will claim our rewards for faithful service. Then we will get what we've been so impatiently hoping for. It will be worth the wait.
Keeping the end in mind,
Janna
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Janna Rust is a Life Coach and Speaker dedicated to encouraging others towards lives God intends for them. For more information, visit her at www.purposefulpartnerships.com.
