And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good,
for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Rom. 8:28-32
Lord Jesus, every word of the Bible, in one way or another, is ultimately about you. Every command drives us to you. Every promise is fulfilled by you. Every story “whispers your name,” points to your glory, and proffers your grace.
Yet there are some Scriptures that have become “homeroom” to us—like a favorite chair, restaurant, walking path, or scenic view. To go there puts everything into perspective. Romans 8:28-32 is just such a place. The hopes and fears of all our years converge in these shockingly glorious words.
You are working in ALL things for your glory and our good—in the obvious and in the not-so-obvious; in our gains and in our pains; when the power goes out and when our prodigal comes home; when a tire goes flat and when our “cup runneth over.”
Indeed, you are totally in control when everything goes better than we planned, and when 4 out of 6 things don’t; when a time with friends is richer than Solomon’s mines and when an unexpected disappointment comes our way. In all of it, in every last bit of it, you are good and can be trusted.
And absolutely nothing can separate us from your love, Jesus, for we’ve been called according to the Father’s purpose, justified by your righteousness; and one Day we will be glorified, and be as lovely and as loving as you.
As this Wednesday continues to unfold, we rest in this awesome news, marinate in this glory, boast in these riches, and smile the smile grace alone can give. So very Amen we pray, in your lovely and loving name.
