Cling To A Good God

Romans 12:9

9 Let love be without hypocrisy, Abhor what is evil, Cling to what is good.

I am focusing on this verse today. Simply because I need to be reminded of what to cling onto this morning.

I found myself feeling so overwhelmed for no apparent reason. My life is not falling apart. I kept asking myself ” Why do I feel so beat down, and like a failure? “Why am I angry and upset over things that are out of my control?” ” Why am I allowing my mind to go over failing moments over and over?” I heard a still small voice say ” Pray!”. So, I did; A product of what wisdom and instruction that came out of that prayer this morning. I want to share.

I will jump right into verse and break it down. I am using Strong’s Greek and Hebrew concordance also Nelson’s Bible Dictionary, along with Bible Knowledge Commentary.

First, I would like to point out that the word love in verse 9 is the Greek word agape Strongs’s number 26. Which the definition is properly love, to prefer, divine love, benevolence, good will, esteem. So we can translate verse into Let love (divine love, proper love, good will, esteem, charity, to prefer). So Paul is saying let our love be shown as Christ’s divine love (agape).

The second Greek word I would like to point out is without hypocrisy (anupokritos) Strong’s number 505 here is the definition to act without hypocrisy, to act rightly or accordingly, not a phony (put on), describing sincere free from hidden agenda’s and without selfish motives. (Genuine). So Paul is instructing us to act this way directly.

The third Greek word that is in the Strong’s concordance is Abhor this is reference number 655. This Greek word is (apostugeó) the form in this scripture is a verb, So we know that a verb is an action, so we are to take action by detecting evil, hating the sin, our sincere hating of evil (intent). So again Paul is giving us insight and instruction on where our minds, hearts, and souls should be. Also, what is pleasing and acceptable to God.

The fourth Greek word used is evil. This is Strong’s reference number 4190. The Greek word is ponéros, This word means (an adjective which is also used substantively, derived from 4192 /pónos, “pain, severe trouble”) – properly, pain-ridden, emphasizing the inevitable agonies (misery) that always go with evil. What stood out to me is highlighting the inevitable (pain) that goes with evil. Isn’t that the truth! Especially when we emphasize suffering! We focus on the times we have stumbled and created anxiety within ourselves. Whether that be through thought, the enemy whispered, or just our flesh!

The fifth Greek word used in this verse is Cling (reference number in Strong’s is 2853) (kollaó) again we see the form as a verb so, Paul again is telling us to cling actively. So, we need with action to adhere (I sense you might not be getting the action part) I mean read the word, But not just read apply, Pray, Choose purposely to obey God’s word. The definition is (I glue) I join myself firmly, cleave, adhere, I keep company with, of friendly intercourse. So Paul is also saying to stay close to Jesus, He is the way, the truth, the light. (relationship).

The sixth and final Greek word used in this verse is good.
Reference number 18. The Greek word is agathos. The definition of this word is intrinsically good, good in nature, good whether it be seen to be so or not, the widest and most colorless of all words with this meaning. Using Help word studies, I found this definition to be helpful with the context of agathós – inherently (intrinsically) right; as to the believer, (agathós) describes what originates from God and is empowered by Him in their life, through faith. So again Paul was instructing us through faith and trust in God that even when it does not look confident or even when it looks desolate. We have faith and assurance that whatever trial or tribulation we are enduring that God has allowed it to build and grow our faith! So we cling to what is good which is the living God, no matter what season we are in! We are to remain and behave like a child of God. Don’t let a season define your whole relationship with God. Focus on the times that God has provided, delivered, blessed us. Stop focusing on the lows and creating misery within your heart, spirit, and mind. Remember, at these times to cling to Jesus, To hate evil, To love like Christ!

I love you guys! I pray and hope that the Holy Spirit would give you wisdom and love today. To let you know that He see’s your fight! He see’s and acknowledges your tears, pain, and suffering. I will leave you with this one of my favorite scriptures.

Romans 8:18

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

In Jesus Mighty and Saving name Amen, Friends!
Go Ahead! Write it on whatever you can to remind yourself that no matter what we can not compare our sufferings to what He is doing inside of our hearts!!! You are beautiful and precious; you are being renewed for a purpose! Lift your head up!