20 June 2025
“The Spirit himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and coheirs with Christ…” (Romans 8:16–17a, CSB). Suffering is not a sign that you have been forgotten. It is a sign that you belong.
Mark Penrith reminds us, “God didn’t whisper this in a back room. God declared it before heaven, and earth, and hell.” You are not an orphan hoping to earn God’s favor. You are a son. Even in the dark nights of pain, “our adoption is decreed! No annulment can be made.” That is where your confidence rests.
And this changes how you see suffering. Mark says, “If indeed we suffer with him… what on earth does that mean? Whenever you choose integrity over promotion. Forgiveness over revenge. Purity over desire.” Suffering is not random. Suffering is not pointless. Suffering is proof that you share in Christ’s path. “That’s suffering shouting, ‘I am Christ’s coheir!’” Every hardship, every trial, every tear is part of that glorious family resemblance.
That means you do not face it alone. “The Spirit’s witness sustains us in suffering,” Mark reminds us. Even when life feels crushing, you can hold to this promise: “Your pain has an expiration date. Christ’s suffering ended in His glory, our suffering will end in our glorification.” Nothing you face is wasted.
That is good news for your home too. Gather your kids and say it out loud: “Even when it’s hard, we are God’s kids. And He hasn’t left us.” Let them see that you believe this. Let them pray with you as you trust God together.
So lean into that Spirit-breathed assurance today. Tell your soul, “I am His! And I will have Him at last!” This is the Spirit’s work in you. This is your birthright in Jesus.
Prayer:
Father, thank You that suffering cannot take away my sonship. Help me live like one who belongs. Amen.
Watch the sermon here.
This devotional content is not penned by the preacher. It is derived from the sermon notes. We aim to provide bite-sized reflections throughout the week for devotion and reflection.