Romans 8:28

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Friday, 26 July 2013

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

This is another of the recommended memory verses for each of us. It is something we can cling to and be both upheld by and inspired by all the days of our walk with Christ.

“And we know” indicates certainty. If we know it, then why do we think and act as if the words aren’t true? Be certain in what you know.

This verse is actually not a stand-alone thought, but it is tied into what Paul has been saying in the previous verses. As we wait for the redemption of our bodies and our glorification, we have weaknesses. At those times, the Spirit is with us, searching us out and making intercession to God for us.

Because of these things, “we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” None of this can be separated and still be true. It is a unified thought. In other words, we can’t say that all things work together for those who love God in the general sense. Lots of people love “God” but have no relationship with Him, meaning the true God. For some, the god they love may not be the true God. Or they may love the true God, but have not understood the full revelation of Himself and thus cannot be pleasing to Him (see John 5:23 for example).

Having said that, “we know that all things work together…” This is referring to the creation while it is in its fallen state as noted in the previous verses. All of the common elements around us are being used toward a good end for those “who love God, and are the called according to His purpose.” God has an end to this current state which will come about as He directs. He is purposing that end in and through creation and it is being done in a way that everything which occurs is happening towards that good end.

Those who are included in that good end can be assured that whatever occurs, no matter how seemingly bad, disastrous, or out of control is actually known to God and being used in the fulfillment of His plan. All things, good or bad, work together for good – that good end which shall result. This is a verse of comfort in a world of woe.

Life application: Memorizing verses such as Romans 8:28 can be a great help in times of trial. As long as they aren’t misused or partially quoted, thus destroying the true intent, they are a valuable tool for our continued walk with God. Through them, we can praise Him in the storms as well as during the calm.

O God, it’s so easy to think I’m in Your favor when everything is going great, but its another thing to think this way when the times of trouble come. But I know Your word is true and so even in the times of trouble, Your plan is being worked out for a good end; an end in which I am included in because of the wondrous work of Messiah. Thank You for my Lord Jesus. Amen.

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