Romans 5:5 – Expectation that does not put to shame 

…. Now expectation is not mortifying, seeing that the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the holy spirit which is being given to us.

We have been declared righteous by GOD, have peace and access to Him, and boast in glorious expectation. A boasting that appears real, because it also endures afflictions. Why that is so is answered in this verse.

Expectation endures affliction because “in our hearts” is the realization that expectation will not be put to shame. Of course, what we expect is not yet seen, because that is why it is called”expectation” (8:24). But it is fixed. It is not without reason that “expectation” is always represented by an anchor (Heb. 6:19) which is not visible either, but is rock solid and therefore also gives stability.

But how can we be so sure that expectation does not put to shame? That is because we have an awareness in our hearts of the abundant (“poured out”) love of the one GOD. The fact that He loves all His creation and every creature is the guarantee that He will bring everything to a successful conclusion. He can and He wants to, and that’s why He will. Solid expectation is based on GOD’S limitless, unconditional love for all!

Delen: