“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28
Christians often share Romans 8:28 in times of adversity to indicate that if we will just trust God, everything will work out well, like a “happily ever after” ending to a fairy tale.
Others have defined the “good” as excellent health, a stable job, a happy family, and nice vacations. Popular thought from many “prosperity gospel” preachers is that if you just keep the right attitude, good things will definitely come your way.
But I have wondered about these sorts of interpretations of Romans 8:28. They can make a person focus on a hoped-for outcome rather than on the Lord who is seeing you through. For years I have been fighting to get back a portion of what my stroke took away. There hasn’t been a fairy tale ending. However, I am learning that the “good” I must fix my eyes on is God’s glory. Though I haven’t regained perfect health, I am being conformed into the likeness of Him along the way. The troubles we face are designed by God for His glory and for our good, whether that “good” comes in this life or the next.
Others have defined the “good” as excellent health, a stable job, a happy family, and nice vacations. Popular thought from many “prosperity gospel” preachers is that if you just keep the right attitude, good things will definitely come your way.
But I have wondered about these sorts of interpretations of Romans 8:28. They can make a person focus on a hoped-for outcome rather than on the Lord who is seeing you through. For years I have been fighting to get back a portion of what my stroke took away. There hasn’t been a fairy tale ending. However, I am learning that the “good” I must fix my eyes on is God’s glory. Though I haven’t regained perfect health, I am being conformed into the likeness of Him along the way. The troubles we face are designed by God for His glory and for our good, whether that “good” comes in this life or the next.
Scripture Focus
Romans 8:28-39
Insight
Lord, help us to re-orient our definition of “good” as we trust You to work all things for good as You promise in Romans 8. Amen
Bible In A Year
- 1 Samuel 13-14
- Psalm 126
- 2 Corinthians 6-7
