Lent Devotional April 12, 2025

Scripture

Romans 11:25-36

25 So that you may not claim to be wiser than you are, brothers and sisters, I want you to understand this mystery: a hardening has come upon part of Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. 26 And so all Israel will be saved; as it is written,

“Out of Zion will come the Deliverer;
he will banish ungodliness from Jacob.”
27 “And this is my covenant with them,
when I take away their sins.”

28 As regards the gospel they are enemies of God for your sake; but as regards election they are beloved, for the sake of their ancestors; 29 for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. 30 Just as you were once disobedient to God but have now received mercy because of their disobedience, 31 so they have now been disobedient in order that, by the mercy shown to you, they too may now receive mercy. 32 For God has imprisoned all in disobedience so that he may be merciful to all.

33 O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!

34 “For who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?”
35 “Or who has given a gift to him,
to receive a gift in return?”
36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen.

Devotion

Naomi Johnson ’23

Romans 11:33 is a breathtaking moment of declaration and praise in Paul’s letter, and it draws my heart into awe-filled worship. The phrase "the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God" reminds me of the vastness of God’s sovereignty and grace. It’s a humbling acknowledgment that God’s plans and purposes are beyond human comprehension, yet they overflow with mercy.

Reflecting on this passage, I am struck by the mystery of God’s ways, particularly in how Paul frames the inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles in God’s salvation plan. Paul’s argument that God’s mercy extends to all, despite human disobedience, speaks to the boundless generosity of God. This challenges me to trust in God’s wisdom, even when I don’t understand the circumstances of my life or the world around me.

A personal story comes to mind when I reflect on this verse. There was a time in my life when I struggled to see God’s hand in the midst of pain and uncertainty. I questioned how anything good could emerge from such confusion. But over time, I began to see the intricate ways God was at work—restoring relationships, deepening my faith, and drawing me closer to Him. Like Paul, I could only respond with awe, marveling at the richness of God’s mercy.

This passage encourages me to surrender my limited understanding and rest in the infinite wisdom of God. It invites me to trust that, even when the path seems unclear, God’s plans are rooted in love and designed for His glory. Truly, “to Him be glory forever. Amen” (Rom 11:36).

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the depth of your wisdom and mercy. Help me to trust in your plans, even when I cannot see the full picture. Teach me to rest in your infinite knowledge and surrender my uncertainties to you. May my life reflect your glory forever. Amen.

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