“We know God works for the good in all things, for those who love him—those called according to his purpose… to be conformed to the image of his Son.” Rom. 8:28-29
Heavenly Father, this most-often yellow-highlighted Bible verse underscores the disparity between what we often read in a Scripture, and what’s really there. The good news is your meaning is always better than ours.
As a young believer, I would have sworn this verse means, if I love you enough, a steady stream of “good things” will flow into my life. I took “good” to mean “pleasant,” “enjoyable,” “fun”, minimal pain, financial success, and stellar health.
Hallelujah, the truth is so much better than my illusion—my “wish list.” First of all, I’m glad to know grace doesn’t come to us to the degree we love you, but to the degree you love us—which is 110%. We never merit what you freely give us.
Secondly, thank you for showing me “good” isn’t a synonym for the “goodies” of “the American dream,” but the likeness of your beloved Son, Jesus. Nothing will be “good-er,” than one Day to be completely like Jesus. Soon, please Father.
Thank you for always working in all things all the time to make us like Jesus. Our suffering isn’t meaningless. When it seems like you’re not hearing or answering our prayers, you are at work. When you “bless us out the wazoo,” you are at work. When life is “a blast,” and when it’s “too much,” you are at work for our good. The work you began, you will finish (Phil. 1:6). A big, very Amen, to that.