But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their fullness bring! Romans 11:12
It is truly amazing how God can use failure to bring about success. The Hebrews, His chosen children, rejected Him. When they were given the opportunity to walk with His Son - to exalt Him - to follow Him, they chose to crucify Him instead. Yet it was Christ's crucifixion and subsequent that brought salvation to the world.
Life from Death.
Paul was a Jew. Although he was the apostle to the Gentiles, he never lost the love for his own people. He spoke of their rebellion with sadness, and he acknowledged that it was the hardening of their hearts that opened the door for salvation. But Paul poses a consideration: "How much greater will their fullness bring!" If rebellion brought salvation, what wonderful things would come from obedience?
It isn't easy to admit, but I love rebellion. Not only does it bring momentary pleasure, but in some twisted way I have come to believe that it draws me closer to God. I know this is foolishness. The truth is that rebellion pulls me away from God. But somehow, I've turned it around. I almost enjoy falling in the pit, because it is in the pit that God has held me the tightest.
Lord, I'm having a tough time grasping the idea of holiness. What does it look like to follow You and You alone? It seems when I draw closer to You, I sabotage myself. If I were to let go of my sinful nature, how will I be drawn to You?
I am afraid.
Help me to see that letting go - that giving You the reins - will bring life as I could never have imagined it. How much greater will fullness bring! Let me see it in this lifetime.