The 20 Verses You Love Most: #15 God Has This!

The 20 Verses You Love Most | Liz Curtis Higgs

Reading the Bible aloud can be dangerous. When you hear your own voice speaking these timeless words, when you sense God’s presence beneath, around, and through them, when you wish you could ignore the truth, yet desperately need to believe—then reading his Word into the silence just might undo your plans to resist what God is saying to you.

I remember the day I first discovered this verse—two verses, really, yet all one sentence—while reading Scripture aloud to a group of friends at a Bible study. I was so moved that I ended up weeping. Can it be true, Lord? Do you love us that much?

Many years later I received a letter from a woman whose experience mirrored my own: “That verse changed everything for me. I sobbed so hard, my heart burst open. God moved in and caulked the broken places. He was there for me and has been there for me every day, every moment since.”

Amen, and then some.

Perhaps you are stronger than we are, and can recite this passage without your throat tightening or your eyes watering.

Go ahead, beloved. Read this aloud. We’ll wait for you.

I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

Nothing. Nothing in all creation can separate us from God’s love.

For those of us who’ve done everything in God’s creation to ignore him, offend him, or deny him, these verses offer incredible hope.

We’re not too late. We’ve not gone too far. We didn’t blow it completely.
God is on our side. God loves us still.

Let’s get started.

Bible Open to Romans

I am… Romans 8:38

This is not the great I AM, not the Lord himself. This is the apostle Paul speaking. He uses “I am” in fifteen verses just in Romans. If that sounds like an ego run amuck, take a look at just two verses.

  • “I am not ashamed of the gospel” (Romans 1:16). Only Paul could make that statement about himself, so “I am” fits the bill here. (This verse also makes me teary. Such boldness, such conviction.)
  • “What a wretched man I am!” (Romans 7:24, which is not among our Top 20 faves). Only Paul could make such a confession. And I’m right there with him. What a wretched woman I am! No question. A blooming mess.

I really need to hear the assurance that’s coming next. You too?

…convinced that… Romans 8:38

Paul is “sure” (CEV); in fact, he’s “certain” (GNT); indeed, he’s “persuaded” (ASV). Truth be told, the man is “absolutely convinced” (PHILLIPS), and “beyond doubt” (AMP).

All right, then. If Paul’s in, I’m in, because Paul’s only in if God’s in.

God is definitely in. This promise is so big, this truth is so huge, it could only come from the Creator himself.

Not to give away the happy ending, but the list that follows includes all the things that might be able to separate us from the love of God. But they don’t. They can’t. And they won’t. Ever.

…neither death nor life,… Romans 8:38

While you’re on Planet Earth, you’re dressed head to toe in God’s love. When you go to Heaven, you will still be garbed in God’s love. “Nothing living or dead” (MSG) can get between you. Not even the living dead. (Sorry, zombies.)

Paul understood that “to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21), because either way, you are with God.

 Angel at Rest

…neither angels nor demons,… Romans 8:38

“Neither messenger of Heaven nor monarch of earth” (PHILLIPS) can interfere with your relationship with God. They are imposing creatures, to be sure. But not strong enough to separate you from the One who loves you.

As it happens, angels are called to protect us: “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:11).

But demons or “dark spirits” (VOICE) are bent to destroy us: “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour“ (1 Peter 5:8).

Yet, “the Lord your God fights for you, just as he promised” (Joshua 23:10). Neither the enemy or his minions can get through God’s shield of love. Even the angels, bright and shining as they are, cannot steal our gaze away from our Beloved.

…neither the present nor the future,… Romans 8:38

The things we’re dealing with right now may seem like greater fears than death or demons. Yet God assures us that we can stop worrying about ”what happens today or what may happen tomorrow” (PHILLIPS), that we can give up fretting over “things impending and threatening” (AMP), that we no longer need to lose sleep over “anything in the present or anything in the future” (GW).

God already knows what your future holds, and it is good. Guaranteed.

When you find yourself slipping back into the habit of worrying, fretting, tossing and turning, remind yourself, “God has this!” He truly does, dear one. Truly.

God Has This!

…nor any powers,… Romans 8:38

What sort of “forces” (GW) are we talking about here? “Hostile powers” (HCSB), “spiritual powers” (EXB), even “the powers of hell” (NLT). Powerful powers, then.

Still, “no force whatever” (KNOX) is going to drive a wedge between our heart and God’s.

How can we be certain? Because Jesus is seated at God’s right hand “with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him” (1 Peter 3:22). They have to go through him to get to you. And that’s not going to happen.

Paul is convinced. I am convinced. How are you doing?

…neither height nor depth,… Romans 8:39

I’ve always found this phrase stirring, perhaps because it sounds so expansive, reminding us “how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ” (Ephesians 3:18).

Since his love stretches so far, we’ve no need to live in fear of “a power from on high nor a power from below”  (PHILLIPS). Those  “powers in the sky.” and “powers in the depths” (EXB) are held at bay by his love.

Can they separate us from God? They “cannot!” (NLV)

Whole World in Hands

…nor anything else in all creation,… Romans 8:39

I love this. Paul has covered the spiritual universe like a blanket, yet he adds one more layer of comfort for us, just to be sure. “Nothing else in all the world” (WE), not “any other thing that is created” (CEB) is clever enough, strong enough, or patient enough to end our relationship with God that he has ordained.

…will be able to separate us… Romans 8:39

God’s commitment to us is far more lasting than a marriage vow. Not “’til death do us part,” since even death won’t separate us. “Absolutely nothing can get between us and God’s love” (MSG), and nothing ”shall be able to part us” (WYC).

…from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:39

Love, love, love.

It’s all because of him, because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us” (MSG). This is how God showed us his love, ”revealed in the Anointed, Jesus our Lord” (VOICE).

Cara, one of our sisters who chose this verse, admitted, “When I feel weak and useless, I rely on this reminder that my connection with God is sustained not by my feeble attempts to seek him but by his stunningly powerful love.”

Well said, Cara. If I were going to pick one verse among our 20 to memorize, it would be this one. Tissues, please.

I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

Now it’s your turn

Can you recall a time when Romans 8:38-39 spoke to your heart, lifted your spirits, or got you through a tough patch? Take a moment to share your experience, knowing it will truly encourage others. Just add your response under Post a Comment below.

Next week, we’ll hop back to the Old Testament and unpack #14 of the verses you love. It’s short, but definitely encouraging. Can’t wait to find out what God has in store for us!

Your grateful sister, Liz

Your Sister in Christ, Liz Curtis Higgs

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P.S. If you could use a God Has This! bracelet, you’ll find them online at Gulf Coast Blessings.

 

46 Responses to The 20 Verses You Love Most: #15 God Has This!

  1. Lynsey Wells May 15, 2013 at 3:44 am #

    [My] heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord, [My] heart is secure, I will have no fear. (Psalm 112) Why? BECAUSE NOTHING CAN SEPARATE US FROM THE LOVE OF GOD! Wow! And now all I want to do is open my tenement window and shout this amazing truth out to everyone on the streets of Glasgow! Or maybe, I’ll find the opportunity to whisper this beautiful life changing truth into a wobbly heart that needs securing today. That’ll be my prayer. Thank you Liz!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 16, 2013 at 8:24 am #

      Love that visual of flinging open your window, my Scottish sister!

  2. Robyn @ a bird in the Father's hand May 15, 2013 at 8:20 am #

    I have received so much comfort from this verse over the years. I love the way Citizen Way’s new song goes – “You gave it all to have me, You took the Cross to save me – Nothing ever could separate us now!” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NW_8tOKFtuo
    So much encouragement from you and the Lord here, Liz. Thanks again! Love this Wednesday series so much!

  3. Linda Casella May 15, 2013 at 8:34 am #

    How can we ever repay the love that God has for us? To send Jesus to the earth to die for us is truly amazing. But we can’t repay, we can only worship the God who made us and try to live as Jesus lived. To shine God’s light in the shadows that surround me is my wish and with God’s Holy Spirit I will succeed. Thank you Liz for also shining his light into our livesl

  4. Ann amidon May 15, 2013 at 8:37 am #

    Wow. Is right!

  5. Shauna May 15, 2013 at 8:41 am #

    Powerful words this morning. God must be trying to get my attention; our pastor used this verse Sunday morning! It is profoundly amazing that He loves us that much. Still can’t wrap my head around it. I guess that is the basis of faith–we believe without fully understanding.

  6. hilary adams May 15, 2013 at 8:46 am #

    amen amen and amen again.
    every single time I am in ” worldly” space… here you are Liz to lift me up, dust me off and head me in the right direction. what a blessing you are. thankyou

  7. Linda H. May 15, 2013 at 8:46 am #

    “God has this!” I love that. This verse speaks to me at a tender time in my life. My daughter has closed off herself from me and I feel so separated from her. It has broken my heart. The pain in her life has built a wall around her. While I feel separated from her I have God’s assurance today that nothing can separate me from God’s amazing love. He is all I need. I need to cease worrying..God has this!! He is right beside my daughter too.

    • Karen May 15, 2013 at 10:30 am #

      Linda, I have 5 grown children (ages 23-31) and their young adult years have been harder on my heart (and nerves) than their teens were. Giving our children completely over to God is the hardest thing a mother ever faces… whether it’s their safety, their happiness, their salvation or even their earthly lives… we struggle with every bit of it. You’re right…. God has this! He IS right by your daughter, but He also cares about your heart in the process. I pray He’ll comfort you and give you peace DAILY… because I know it’s a daily thing. Bless you!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 16, 2013 at 8:27 am #

      Karen has offered such good counsel, Linda. Please know that I’m praying for you this day!

      • Linda H. May 16, 2013 at 8:46 am #

        Thank you sweet sisters Karen and Liz..what a peace to know someone is praying for you! It brings me hope.

  8. elizabeth hoagland May 15, 2013 at 8:57 am #

    Oh my goodness gracious, Liz, this is STELLAR….and TIMELY….and GREATLY NEEDED today and EVERY DAY!!!! Thank you so much. Have had a WILD week (even tho’ it’s only Wednesday) and your blog has given me the boost I so desperately needed. Thank you for your excellent research and insight. So proud of you. Hugs across town from Elizabeth =)

  9. Annette May 15, 2013 at 9:03 am #

    Oh Liz, I thank you so so much for these opening sentences. I began a practice of reading the verses aloud to myself last year after going thru the bible study Annointed, Transformed, and Redeemed . I felt God speak thru you this morning and I am humbled. Speaking the verses aloud gives me confidence and hope in God. Just wanted to thank you and to tell you I very much appreciate reading your blog !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  10. Crystal M. May 15, 2013 at 9:19 am #

    Wow! What encouraging words that were needed on this day. Today is my husband’s birthday he would have been 34 today but was taken home to be with the Lord a short seven months ago. The accident happened at work and has changed the life that me and my two precious children held so dear. At times I have felt so alone but this verse is confirmation that God is there and is bigger than any hardship that we face while on this earth. God Has This! Now I just have to trust that and walk in the faith believing he knows best and that his plans our bigger than mine because nothing can separate me from God’s love!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 16, 2013 at 8:32 am #

      Oh, Crystal, how my heart goes out to you. SO young to bear such loss! God is faithful beyond imagining and he will never leave you or forsake you. Praying right now the Lord will reveal his love for you in a special way this day. A warm hug to you and to your dear children.

    • Linda H. May 16, 2013 at 8:53 am #

      Lifting you and your precious family up in prayer. I pray you will feel His incredible peace and comfort today.

  11. Sandra May 15, 2013 at 9:35 am #

    Good Morning, Liz! I love God so much! This verse today is perfect — it is my 48th birthday — and what a great reminder of all that God can do through his love! I recently lost two relatives, my Kind Uncle and my Hilarious Aunt, but neither wanted services and were cremated. That was that? So I have been down about it, and praying that God will recognize their sweet faces! This verse gives me hope. It is a great Birthday present. Joy to you!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 16, 2013 at 8:35 am #

      Birthday wishes to you, Sandra, and I’m so sorry for your loss as well. Have no fear of the Lord welcoming them home. That happened long before those final steps were taken. God’s blessings on your 48th year…I loved mine! :>)

  12. Tammy May 15, 2013 at 9:48 am #

    The part that sticks out to me is “nor anything else in all creation”. That includes me I’m an anything else. That means that when I mess up no matter how bad my God will still be there holding me in His hands waiting for me to turn around toward Him!!

  13. Latosha May 15, 2013 at 10:04 am #

    I am just overwhelmed by all that God has for me and daily I will trust Him. Thank you for sharing there is so much to feast on here, Amen!

  14. Christina Anderson May 15, 2013 at 10:15 am #

    This verse is so powerful! If you ever wonder if anyone or anything can separate you from God’s love, this verse is the answer. I just finished reading Liz’s book on Mary Magdalene. It is superb. Definitely recommend it!

  15. Bonnie Walker May 15, 2013 at 10:48 am #

    I especially like the phrase….”neither death nor life”….. Sometimes life gets very difficult, and this promise of nothing being able to separate us from the love of God keeps and delights in so many big and small events. Whether happy, or sad, whether jubilant or depressed, whether tired or energetic, whether young or old….nothing…nothing…nothing! Knowing this truth as best I can helps me face any situation. While reading the site today, Lord Tennyson’s poem “Flower in the Crannied Wall” came to my mind….if I could understand it, I could understand God. A beautiful flower growing out of a crack in a wall, seeking light, moisture, nurture…a picture of every Christian, I believe.

  16. Lois Myers May 15, 2013 at 11:25 am #

    I have really appreciated your teaching in this series. But this is my LIFE verse, and I must share how it has strengthened me thru life. I have sung these words in a song by Audrey Meier called “I am persuaded” many times. Knowing it as a song has allowed easy recall. It has strengthened me when I faced my daughter’s sins of out of wedlock pregnancy, homosexuality, grief from group rejection as a pastor’s wife, loss of friendships, depression, and on and on. NOTHING can separate us from the love he gives, because He calls your name when you give up on Him and says “you can give up on me but I will never give up on you.” Life tries to separate us from His love, Praise God
    He does not separate himself from us, and NOTHING can do so when we remain His Child, The magnitude of this promise is forever-Eternal!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 16, 2013 at 8:39 am #

      Lois, I so appreciate your honesty. When we face so many trials, we really see how faithful our God is. You are SO right about his promise, “You can give up on me, but I will never give up on you.” It brings to mind a verse I’ve often turned to: “if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself.” 2 Timothy 2:13 Wow.

  17. Kathy S May 15, 2013 at 11:40 am #

    Thank you Liz for this wonderful series. I can’t wait for it to arrive each week. It is such a comfort to rest in the fact that nothing can separate us from the love of God. My dear friends precious sister passed away yesterday and what a comfort to know that she is now with God in His presence. She wrote this beautiful acrostic before she went home.
    Homecall
    Happy transition:
    One
    Moment here in time,the next there in
    Eternal bliss,
    Changed in an instant
    As faith becomes sight and Jesus my
    Lord, with a smile on His face, will
    Lovingly welcome me in!

    • Janet May 15, 2013 at 2:22 pm #

      How beautiful, Kathy. Thanks for sharing.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 16, 2013 at 8:41 am #

      Wonderful! And what a comfort to her sister and to all who knew and loved her. Sure appreciate this, sis.

  18. Julie Sunne May 15, 2013 at 1:12 pm #

    So grateful we are memorizing these verses as part of The Romans Project. This is Hope tied up neatly, complete with a bow, and presented to us. I love how you excavate each word and small phrase, Liz.

  19. Janet May 15, 2013 at 2:24 pm #

    This is such an important verse, when I come to it I will stand to read it. And, yes, reading it aloud brings me to tears. How good to know God has this…each and every day.

  20. Bonnie Lake May 15, 2013 at 5:49 pm #

    I memorized this while walking through the Forrest with great JOY. Then I held its facts in my Spirit, decades later, as a tornado tore up my home in Tennessee. Since then, circumstances somewhat seperated from the tornado have tried to tear me in pieces. This IS the biggest promise EVER!!! Thank you Jesus!

  21. patti iverson May 15, 2013 at 6:43 pm #

    Seems like life has been one solid try to separate me from God’s love
    with stinkin’ arrows ‘n enemies–yet the promise holds true true true!
    Nuthin’ can separate me from HIM, my Lord and His love.. Not the
    death of my folks as a teen, my 3 siblings in young adulthood, not
    alcoholism, nor too many other addictions, not abuse of all kinds, not
    my son and family becoming Atheists and “Godless Parents Raising Free
    Thinking Children”, not really wretched health and diseases, not
    caregiving for my elderly elder mom in law for 30 yrs living with us,
    not nuthin’, nada, zip! Of course the list could go on, they always
    do, whether we want it to or not–but God! But God! But God! I love
    him so… and yes, reading God’s letter to me aloud makes me weep
    with joy!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 16, 2013 at 8:44 am #

      Even after all you’ve been through, Patti, how glorious to know you can still say, “But God!” May he strengthen your faith in a tangible way this day.

  22. Dori May 15, 2013 at 9:38 pm #

    Gods timing is always perfect. So thanks for listening to him Lizzy. This verse spoke volumes to me. Over the last 3 weeks “I” have separated my self from God thinking “he” didn’t love me anymore. I got bad news from my doctor, that unfortunately, I won’t ever be able to have another baby. My son has always wanted a sibling, and I thought for sure God would bring a husband and father our way. I know God’s way is not always my way. But today I decided to make the step to say, like Paul, I’m sure…..but I’m only sure God knows what he’s doing. My goal this week is to work up to being able not only saying but believing, like Paul, with out a doubt that God’s got this all worked out. Because right now the pain hurts to bad that my heart is begging God to change the outcome. This tiny part of the verse, well it brought a little hope to a dark day. I think I need to get one of those bracelets…. I need that daily reminder.
    This bible study is so helpful. Thank you for sharing with all of us.

    XOXO. DORI

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 16, 2013 at 8:49 am #

      Dear Dori, I am SO sorry to hear this. I know many of our sisters can identify with your pain. So grateful you shared your “dark day” with us, and we’ll be praying the Lord will shed the light of his loving-kindness on you this day. Give that sweet boy of yours a hug for me.

  23. Lynne May 16, 2013 at 12:17 am #

    Amazing! I’ve been studying these verses this week for our Ladies Study Group, so will be able to share some of your thoughts as well. Thanks you, Liz.

  24. CJ May 16, 2013 at 11:32 am #

    I had a past job that led me to constant nervousness, low esteem, and fear. I even started blood pressure medecine and the Dr. told me I could take a nerve pill. I did not want to go this rout, so I quit the job. This verse is GOD with His arms out to me and you!

    A few weeks ago I started a new job, a place of quiet peace where I have so much free time my employer told me I could read whatever I want. And of course I read the WORD, your Bible Study and other Christian authors.

    God is amazing! I think He had to be laughing at me when I took this new job. I was fearful to work again after my last experience. But, daily He reminds me of his love through, kindess shown to me. Today’s reminder of His love came through your devotional. Thank you!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 18, 2013 at 8:52 am #

      I love seeing God at work, CJ! Thanks for giving us a glimpse of his handiwork.

  25. linda May 16, 2013 at 11:34 am #

    This is my very favorite verse also.

  26. Bonnie Brown May 16, 2013 at 1:36 pm #

    Our Bible Study Group is enjoying each lesson and look forward each week to “The Reveal” of our next favorite verse. The testimonies of each one here truly blessed us and enhances the lesson even further. We agreed we were all familiar with this verse, but how much clearer and stronger it is embedded into our minds and hearts. No matter what…God is ever faithful and loves us so much. Thank you, Liz, and thank you to all who post and share their insight each week.

  27. Amy May 16, 2013 at 10:36 pm #

    Wonderful, Merciful Savior,
    Precious Redeemer and Friend,

    I give thanks to our great God for His precious word! I remember the first time I memorized this verse. It was about 10 years ago when I was teaching Pioneer Girls. It’s when the Lord’s love was just starting to chip away and penetrate my broken, hardened heart.

    It’s amazing what the word of God can do to a heart and soul. It truly is alive and active. The comfort, love and assurance His word brings is unimaginable. God’s words – God’s promises – written down for us that we may be sure of His love. There is no sweeter love or name than that of Jesus Christ. He is the perfect Savior whose love never fails. The word became flesh and then hung upon a tree that we might draw near to God forever! Amazing! Amazing love!

    It’s been a tough few months for me, but the Lord is strong and able. This verse is sweet to the heart and soul. Not only can He keep my heart, but He has promised too! He will do it – not because I could ever deserve it, but because of His great mercy, power and love. I can rest knowing that He is all powerful and has promised to protect His love for me! Yes, tears… He protects His love for me – that nothing – nothing could shatter it! It lasts forever! There is none like our great God! He is unshakeable, unmovable, unstoppable and His love never ends!

    He breaks through the darkness and brings His marvelous light! He sets the prisoners free – sometimes they stay in prison, but it doesn’t matter because His love IS enough! His love and joy makes us complete and whole and happy!

    I love how our God works! How He teaches us and shows us that His ways are always, always good – even when we don’t understand. He humbles us and we bow. That bracelet – God has this – is such a gift from the Lord. I had to call my husband at work yesterday when I saw your post. We do not doubt that God’s love is sure and strong! We both smiled and gave thanks to a kind God that pays attention to the most minute details of our lives and gives us sovereign encouragement – through His word and through posts like this one and yes that bracelet, too.

    This post has been a rich blessing! His word gives us confidence to believe and know that we are loved deeply! Deeply loved forever! Amazing! Amazing love! I give thanks!

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 18, 2013 at 8:55 am #

      This is such a solid truth, Amy: “His ways are always, always good – even when we don’t understand.” Absolutely. He has had me on a TRUST journey for the last 5 years, and I am here to say, “God is FAITHFUL!”

  28. Gina May 18, 2013 at 1:38 am #

    My grandmother used to tell me this verse when I was a little girl. I just could not wrap my mind around this verse. Fears and insecurities followed by failure after failure led to feeling unloved and unloveable. This passage put everything in a different light. But I got to the part “neither the present or the future” confused me. My past haunts me and I wondered why wasn’t the past mentioned? And then the light. . .He has forgiven my sins, the past is over, done, long gone. Time to move on to the present and the future. Tonight I heard Grandma’s voice reciting this incredible verse and I am brought to tears and seem to be having a Sally Field moment “He loves me He REALLY loves me!” Thank you Liz.

    • Liz Curtis Higgs May 18, 2013 at 8:59 am #

      I love that you heard your grandmother reciting Romans 8:38-39, Gina. Not only reading, but hearing, and even more, speaking the Word of God creates such a long-term impact. I’m really blessed when I visit churches where the congregation stands for the reading of the Word. Something RIGHT about that. Thanks for sharing your Sally Field moment with us!

  29. Bonnie Brown September 6, 2013 at 7:12 am #

    This morning I was torn between different issues in my life, and I knew a friend of mine was in need, I ask the lord to help me find a verse that would help me though it all, so I goggled ” a bible verse for Bonnie Brown” and it led me to your page. it was what I needed!! Thank you so much and god bless!!

  30. Diana Shepherd September 16, 2013 at 3:34 pm #

    I’ve loved this verse for a long time. Many years ago now, I had to cling to it to keep from losing my mind as the evil one told me I could never be forgiven. But FORGIVEN I am! Praise God! Thankful He led me to this verse so long ago.

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