What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
Romans 8:31-34
One of the unique features of the rules of baseball is the ability for a team to replace players in crucial situations. If a particular hitter is coming up, the other team is allowed to put in a relief pitcher in place of the current pitcher. If a right-handed pitcher is on the mound, the current batter may be replaced with a pinch hitter who hits left-handed. Bringing in the right substitute at a critical moment can mean the difference between victory and defeat. A baseball team is not restricted to the starting lineup they send out to begin the game.
As Christians, we do not face the challenges and trials of life on our own. We do not have to fight our own battles. We do not have to be afraid of being abandoned or forsaken. The same God who saved us has declared that He is active on our behalf. His presence is the foundation of the promise that He will use His power and strength against our foes. He “goes to bat” for us time after time.
David declared that God’s presence was the source of his confidence. “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1). People in whom we trusted may have let us down. Allies to whom we looked for help in a conflict may not come through. But God never fails, and His eternal promises give us courage and hope for every day.
