And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. 27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.
1. What are the things you groan about in life?
2. Do you believe the Spirit groans with you? Can you trust the Spirit to pray for you exactly as you need?
3. What do you think of your maximal good being defined as being conformed to Jesus? Does that sound good to you? Why or why not?
4. For the Christian, every step in every direction leads you to glory in Jesus. How does that idea affect the way you make decisions or deal with regret over past choices?
5. If you ever think God loves you, why do you think he loves you? What does scripture say about why God loves you?
6. How does God using all things for your good impact the way you go through life in your day to day? Are there any changes you hope to make in response to this?
