We know that in all things God works for good, for His lovers (I)

This morning we are looking at Romans 8:28 which says "And we know that in all things God works for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.” The story of Joseph comes to mind: Sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused by the wife of his master, he was thrown in jail, where he languished two full years after it was clear that the Lord was working to release him. If you know the story, God turned it all around, and he became second only to Pharaoh. He was then able to rescue his family from famine, bringing them to himself in Egypt, the land of plenty (Genesis 37-50). After his father died, his brothers were afraid Joseph would now be free to reap vengeance upon them. But Joseph responds “As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good” (Genesis 50:20).

The verse continues telling that the good was the saving of many lives. Though Joseph could not possibly have known this verse written centuries later, his reaction to his suffering seems to indicate that he knew the truth of it. I say this, because by his actions and character on every occasion, he found favour in the eyes of those who were over him. His master Potiphar made him number one his household, and the keeper of the jail did a similar thing. What I am saying, is that when we know this truth, truly know it, it changes the way we respond to the trials and difficulties and temptations of life. We know it of course, by faith not by sight. Faith is not just intellectual belief, it is putting our money where our mouth is (James 2: 17). And when our faith acts in obedience to this truth, it deepens our faith still further, it deepens even further our “knowing.”

I have heard the partial quote in the title of this post spoken as if it were a stand alone statement. The statement however is qualified, it is for those “who love Him and who are called according to His purpose.” In the Scripture obedience is equated with loving God, and disobedience with hating Him. We see this perhaps most clearly in the apposition of hate and love in Exodus 20:5, 6. In terms of this morning’s verse, it is when in love and obedience our lives line up with Him and His purposes, that we can be confident (truly know), that God is turning things round, working good in all things, even through the bad. This is true, when we repent, even after we have blown it. In fact the godly sorrow of true repentance leads us to godly zeal and obedience (2 Corinthians 7:10, 11). What an amazing God He is!

Father, Your word tells us that in this life we will have troubles, and this is true for the just and the unjust! But when we know You Lord, we can take heart, because You have overcome the world (John 16:33). Thank You Lord that there is coming a day when there will be no more tears or suffering or death (Revelation 21:4). In the meantime Father, help us to truly believe and trust in the truth that You are at work for good in all things as we choose to trust You and to walk in faith and obedience. In Jesus Name Amen