And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28 (ESV)
Romans 8:28 is a well-known promise. Paul is encouraging the church in Rome in a time of suffering. Context is essential. It is not a promise that everything will come together as the world defines ‘good’. Rather, it is a promise for a particular group (those who love God) in a particular place (hard times) for a particular outcome (God’s resolution).
I know life is hard. But I have also seen God use hard times for good. God used my unemployment for good. When I prematurely lost loved family members, He used it for good. Both were incredibly sad events, but He enabled me to comfort those in similar pain and share His indescribable peace. I am now gratefully employed. But my loved ones are gone – myself none the wiser, though I believe God works it for good. One day I will see.
Heavenly Father, thank You for working all things together for good, even in our hard times. Whatever our burden, we wait on You – Your timing, Your resolution. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
