Romans 8:28 – For Our Own Good

^“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28)

For “those who love God,” this verse has a significant promise. For those far from God or indifferent to him, this assurance does not exist. How do we respond to God knowing he has our best interests in mind?

Context (Romans 8:26-30): This verse is nestled in Paul’s discussion about the Holy Spirit helping us in our weakness. It’s a beautiful image of how God takes over when we aren’t capable. Sometimes we’re in such a dark place we don’t even know what to pray. That is when the Holy Spirit can shine through us. Our memory verse emphasizes the protection and provision we have when we love God. God knew we would need a helper.

We may question why God allows certain things to happen to us. This is especially true when difficult times of struggle descend on us. Have you ever felt suffocated by your problems, sure that you’ll never know “normal” again? It’s especially in these times that we need to claim the promise of this verse.

This verse affirms our confidence in God. We boldly state “we know” something about God. Knowing something is true is a lot more powerful than just thinking it is. We can trust God because he always keeps his promises and his prophecies come true. Our faith is based on trusting our invisible yet very present God.

What we know is that God is working. He may be working behind the scenes in ways we can’t begin to imagine, but it’s all for our own good. When bad things happen, God is the one who works tirelessly to make something good come from those trials. It may simply be the experience of going through something difficult that we’ll carry with us to help the next person in their own dark hour.

Imagine God making lemonade out of lemons, where lemons are our burdens and challenges. Who doesn’t like a refreshing glass of lemonade on a sultry summer day? God is in the business of making beauty from ashes. After all, he made each of us out of a clump of cells. God is working it out for us, believe it.

The second part of this promise speaks to our part. We are identified by our love for God and how we accept his call on our life. Do you feel like you are living your God given purpose? Or are you just going through the motions of life happy to have just made it through another week?

When we are living out the purpose God intends for us, life hums along with a sense of peace and calm. Chaos may be all around us, but our hearts are still and we know we are where God wants us to be. I know how it feels to not be in that place, and I much prefer when I let God lead and guide my path.

Since we’re not perfect, we often fall off that path. Thankfully, this verse and other encouraging words in Scripture direct us back on course. Reflect on how God is watching out for you in this season of life.

Let’s pray. Lord, you are mighty and wise, and I worship you and bring you praise. Help me to always act and speak in ways that honor you and bring glory to your name. Thank you for always watching out for me and sending the Holy Spirit to guide my steps. May I tap into your wisdom and do better at waiting for you to move. In Jesus’ name. Amen.