People tend to make two mistakes when they think about the redeemed life. The first is to underestimate the sin that remains in us; it’s still there and it can still hurt us. The second is to underestimate the strength of God’s grace; God is determined to make us new. As a result, all Christians need to say two things. We admit that we are redeemed sinners. But we also say boldly and joyously that we are redeemed sinners.
~ from Cornelius Plantings, in Beyond Doubt
To doubt the good will of God is an inborn suspicion of God with all of us.
Besides, the devil…goes about seeking to devour us by roaring: ‘God is angry at you and is going to destroy you forever.’
In all these difficulties we have only one support, the Gospel of Christ. To hold on to it, that is the trick.
Christ cannot be perceived with the senses…
The heart does not feel His helpful presence…
Especially in times of trials a Christian feels the power of sin, the infirmity of his flesh, the goading darts of the devil…the scowl and judgment of God. All these things cry out against us, death thunders at us, the devil roars at us.
In the midst of the clamor the Spirit of Christ cries in our hearts, ‘Abba, Father.’
And this little cry of the Spirit transcends the hullabaloo of the Law, sin, death, and the devil, and finds a hearing with God. The Spirit cries because of our weakness…(and) is sent forth into our hearts…to assure us of the grace of God.”
– Martin Luther, Commentary on Galatians
GRACE & PEACE 