Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain? 5 Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith— 6 just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”?
“Are you crazy?” Here is a hint in case someone asks you that. Even though there is a question mark, they are not waiting for an answer. To them, you are crazy. The apostle Paul had just asked if the Galatians were so foolish after he called them foolish two verses earlier. The above verses ask another question and he wanted them to review what had happened to them. They heard the gospel and professed faith in Jesus, even to the point of suffering persecution, then continued to cling to works of the law. Just a few verses after saying Jesus died for nothing if the law saves, they suffered for nothing because the law doesn’t save.
It is sad to ponder how many people who profess to be Christians and are hated for it are suffering for nothing because they have not been regenerated by the Holy Spirit, but are relying on being good for their entrance into the kingdom. Pray for them today. As C. S. Lewis said, they do not eat their cake, nor have it. They live pious lives but do not know their Savior who changes them so they can live truly faith-filled lives. As suffering and persecution comes, may we be ready to suffer for Jesus who supplies our faith.
Dear Lord, thank you for equipping us to suffer for you. We pray for those who suffer and are not prepared to meet you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church