Roman's 8

Roman's 8:28

In Roman's chapter 8 verse 28, Paul makes an incredible statement saying, "And we know that for those who love God all things will work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (ESV)

Right when I read this verse it just hit me. It stuck to me hard and I kept flipping back to that verse to re-read it all the time. The more I thought about it, the more sense it made: if we are God's children, why wouldn't He want the best for us? Father's on earth want the best for their children, so why would God be any different? Especially a perfect Father in Heaven. God wants good to happen to us, through His will. His will comes first, and if we yield to that will, good will come for us.

As I read into this verse, I realized a lot of misunderstanding could come from this verse as well. When Paul says "all things will work together for good", the word good could be very loosely handled. God is not of this world, so He would not give us things of this world. When the word "good" is used, Paul is not talking about "good" earthly things, but good Heavenly things. This verse does not guarantee us earthly comfort, but perfect conformity with Christ. It promises us a better relationship with God, closer fellowship with God, bearing the fruit of the Spirit, and glorification with God.  None of those things promised are in relation to the world, but with God. So when we're promised "good" things in Roman's 8:28, don't expect a Mustang, or a gorgeous house, or plenty of money, or great health. None of those things matter in the end. What we need to expect is perfect peace and unity with God.