“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
March 14, 2024
Does the Christian have to love God enough for all things to work together for good? No. But pin this to the memory board of your brain. God’s marvelous grace assures us that all things are working together for good. Key on the word “grace.” Loving God is a qualification for the enjoyment of this promise of this verse, but it is a qualification met by all who belong to Christ. It can be put this way; loving God sums up the basic inner direction of all Christians – but only of Christians. Words of caution: This does not mean (1) a feeling of being accepted by God or feeling good about God. (2) It does not mean living a sinless life. (3) It does not mean meeting God’s need. God does not have a love cup that needs to be filled. Some may glibly say, “everything is for a reason.” If you are not a Christian you can’t fish out of the pond of Romans 8:28. Theologian, John Stott, has given a needed reminder, Paul is not expressing a general superficial optimism that everything tends to everybody’s good in the end. We don’t create reality by positive thinking. Are you trying to put the pieces of the puzzle of your circumstances together? Keep considering the God who is behind this calming promise and the place where He has you in Christ. It’s a place of special mutual love God has given those who are His children.
H
“Thank you, Lord, for the flame of affection that you lit within my heart when I became a new born babe in Christ.”