My Good

Team work is a good thing especially when all team member are working toward one goal! Scripture tells us that "God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28 NASB). We struggle at times to understand or see the "good" in the troubles we encounter. How can cancer, broken relationships, loss of a job, financial headaches, sorrow and death be a work towards good! We must read on: "For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son" (V.29 NASB). Before the foundation of the world The Creator knew those of us who would one day be one of "those who love God," renouncing our hostility toward Him and obediently following Jesus. Once a child of God, everything we face in this life - joys, sorrow, afflictions - He uses for one purpose: to bring us into the images of Jesus His Son. Is God the author of evil - of course not! The days are evil and "the whole world lies in the power of the evil one" (1 John 5:29 ESV). Nonetheless, because God is sovereign and nothing happens outside of His control, He allows both the good and the bad in our lives to bring us into a sharper and more glorious image of Christ Himself. Instead of moaning and groaning and fighting against what God is doing in our lives, be a [spiritual] team player, submitting to His authority and realizing our "good" is His ultimate goal. CityAlight sings this: "There is hope in every trial - For I can trust the Lord - He will turn my heart towards Him - And help me bear the thorn - So in faith I follow Jesus - On the road not understood - For I know that He is working - For His glory and my good." What a challenge for every day and every trial: all things for ... my good.