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. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
Romans 8:28-30
Notes
For most of us, we can remember times of great joy and great sadness, even suffering. What Paul is trying to emphasize is that what we consider to be good or bad is part of the plan for our lives. Philosophically some have argued that to know true joy one has to know true pain. God does not bring about pain, but he provides the recovery, redemption and repair that leads to growth, strength and even gratitude for our hardships. And yet, when something goes wrong we immediately blame God.
MEMORY VERses
Anonymous. Rocky Cliff on a Coast, c. 1850–1860. The Cleveland Museum of Art
Related Verses
More verses about God’s purpose:
Prayer Invitation
Application Questions
- Are you defining “good” as material comfort or personal success, or are you trusting in God to work out something good for you? How can you show your love for God without expecting material things in return?
- What ambitions, desires, habits, or mindsets are you clinging to even though they are in opposition to acting like Christ? What can you change today that would alter your daily life so you do act more like Christ?
- God has declared us justified and glorified, yet we are slow to forgive ourselves and others. Who do you need to forgive? Do you need to forgive yourself? How does knowing that we have assurance in God relieve the pressure of perfectionism or failure?
- What changes do you need to make to shift from a “my life is comfortable and therefore is God’s purpose” to a mindset of “God desires to make me holy” and has a greater purpose for my life? How does this change in perspective affect you, your church, and your community as you face hardship?
- Although we trust God and believe that things happen for a reason, how can you remember to show compassion and empathy when someone shares their hardships with you?
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