Elisabeth Elliot’s unshakeable faith in God throughout her progressive sanctification is a truly inspiring example. Her life is a reflection of the teachings of Paul on Justification, Sanctification, and Glorification. As Christians, we exist between these bookends, and while some of us undergo sanctification more progressively than others, what matters most is that we remain steadfast in our faith like Elisabeth Elliot.
One of the most impressive things about Elisabeth Elliot was that despite experiencing tremendous suffering, she trusted in God without fail. She knew that amidst the chaos and turmoil of life, God reveals details of what Christ accomplished for every believer, providing all that we need and more. The Bible offers promises that cover every imaginable situation, and God extends his hand to us. Our part is to accept his offer and hold fast to our faith.
Paul’s writings on Justification, Sanctification, and Glorification help us gain a deep understanding of our salvation and the life that follows. It’s incredible to think that in Romans 5 through 8, we gain our best understanding of these concepts. Justification is the starting point of a believer’s life, and through progressive sanctification, we are being shaped, molded, and chiseled to resemble Jesus. We are being made in His image so that we can glorify Him in everything we do.
In Romans 5:1, we read about having “peace with God” through justification. This peace grants us free access to God and brings us into a state of high favor with Him. In this state of grace, we can rejoice in our hope of glory. As believers, we have peace, joy, hope, and love, which are all twin blessings of the gospel.
In conclusion, let us remember the words of Elisabeth Elliot: “The way we live ought to manifest the truth of what we believe. A messy life speaks of a messy and incoherent faith.” Let us strive to keep our faith unwavering and steadfast, trusting in God’s love and peace amidst the chaos and turmoil of life. Though we may experience disappointment, there is a hope that does not disappoint – an everlasting hope (Rom. 5:5). God loves and cares for us.
Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. – Rom 5:9-11
Debbie Swindell 