For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin. (Rom 6:5-6 NIV)
. . . always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. (2 Cor 4:10 NKJV)
. . . even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus . . . (Eph 2:5-6 NKJV)
These Bible passages are discussing a believer’s union with Christ. Union with Christ refers to the relationship between the believer and Jesus Christ. It also refers to a willing loyalty of Christ to the believer, as well as a loyalty of the believer to our Lord Jesus.
The first 14 verses of Ephesians, chapter One, explain some of the blessings that we receive from being united with Christ. These passages reinforce our understanding that we are blessed and highly favored by God.
Unity in Christ—a result of our salvation—brings about an ongoing redemptive work in a believer’s life and conduct. As we come to know and understand our Savior, and through the Bible learn about our untold blessings, we yearn to live in a manner that is completely pleasing to the Lord. This is understandable.
Even as a small child who is loved, valued and protected by their parents will choose to please and obey those good parents—so also does a believer desire to please and to obey our loving and merciful Savior. From His hand we receive forgiveness, favor, health, prosperity, protection, provision, and the gift of grace to enable us daily.
Our God is a good God. He blesses people and nations, whether they acknowledge Him or not. He places people in governing positions for the sake of giving people order and safety in the world. He blesses believers individually as we love, obey, and serve Him.
In the last days, they will tremble in awe of the Lord and of his goodness. (Hos 3:5b NLT) As this Scriptures states, in the end times we will tremble with awe because of the Lord’s magnificence and His unimaginable goodness to mankind. Glory to God!
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