Calls Into Existence What Does Not Exist

Weekly Devotional

Calls Into Existence What Does Not Exist

Calls Into Existence What Does Not Exist "…who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist." - Romans 4:17b (ESV)  
 Today, I want to share with you a verse that I use in almost every one of the 1-on-1 counseling sessions I do with standers. This one verse stands out as a beacon of hope and pretty accurately describes what is needed in most situations. Romans 4:17b (ESV) “…Who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.” This verse perfectly describes the power and authority of our God, the God who brings the dead to life and calls into existence what does not exist. During this season of your life, you will most likely find yourself face-to-face with the dark reality of what currently exists—or rather, what doesn’t exist in your spouse and marriage. You might see a marriage that appears lifeless, lacking love, trust, or hope. You might be struggling with a lack of communication, kindness, or even basic levels of respect. It’s in these moments of difficulty and hopelessness that Romans 4:17 comes to life with extraordinary relevance. This powerful verse highlights not one but two remarkable attributes of our God that I pray every stander will often visit. Let’s first look at what could be the most difficult one: “Who gives life to the dead.“ As you stand, I can promise you that the devil is doing everything he can to point out and show you all the dead things that are around you. Whatever in your marriage seems dead, the enemy wants you to see it, whether it’s the love that is no longer there, the conversations that have ended, or even the legal status of the marriage. As easy as it might be, I do not want you to panic about all the things that may, in fact, be dead. You don’t even have to ignore the reality that there are indeed some lifeless things around you. Do not be afraid of them. Why? Because you have a God that brings life back to the dead! Whatever has died and no longer breathing, be confident that God has the miraculous ability to breathe life back into it. He can resurrect whatever is lifeless, including your spouse’s heart, their love for you, and even the legal status of your marriage! The next part of this verse is just as powerful, “calling into existence what does not exist.” Equally awe-inspiring is God’s capacity to call into existence that which is not currently a reality. If you’re grappling with the absence of something vital—be it faith, strength, or even a glimmer of hope—rest assured that God can speak it into being. Maybe communication is non-existent. Well, let’s partner with God and call new communication into existence! Do not freak out that there are things in your current dynamic that do not exist anymore. Be encouraged that we have a God who calls into existence the very things that do not exist. And as ambassadors of Christ, you carry this same authority and assignment! The enemy, in his attempts to discourage and defeat us, loves to whisper the narrative of hopelessness. He points to all that’s missing, all that’s dead, and tells us there’s no way forward. But Romans 4:17 is our powerful rebuttal to these lies. When the devil tries to convince you that your marriage is beyond repair, remind him that we serve a God who specializes in resurrection. When he highlights your spouse’s lack of commitment to the marriage, declare that your God can call new commitment into existence with a single word. This verse isn’t just a theological idea—it’s a foundational truth for those standing for their marriages. Today, I want you to refuse to be paralyzed by what’s currently absent or what seems lifeless. Instead, boldly assert your trust in a God who has the ultimate say in your marriage. So, as you navigate the ups and downs of standing for your marriage, cling to Romans 4:17. Let it be your constant reminder that your God is the God of the impossible. He takes what’s dead and breathes life back into it. He calls into existence what’s not even there. And He’s doing it for you, your spouse, and your marriage. So next time discouragement and doubt try to creep in by reminding you of all that is not currently there, return to this verse. When you’re tempted to believe that your situation is hopeless, remind yourself that your God specializes in bringing the dead to life and calls into existence what does not exist. Your marriage is not beyond His reach, and it’s never too late for Him to work a miracle. Today, let Romans 4:17 impart to you fresh hope and an unwavering faith. Stand boldly, knowing that the God you serve is the Author of Resurrection and the One who calls forth the impossible into existence. Your marriage is in His hands, and with Him, dead things can and do come back to life!