In ALL Things He Works

I read this quote by Kay Arthur this morning, "At the cross we can look beyond the pain and disappointment to the end result: the promise that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose - and only the cross can conform us into His image."

After I read that, I reflected back to 1988 when I claimed the promise from Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him and are called according to His purpose." In 1988, I was divorced, bankrupt and a single mother. I cried out to Him in desperation, to forgive me of my sinfulness and asked Him to be my Lord and Savior. I claimed that promise from His Word that He'd take my messed up life and turn it into good for His glory, some day, some way.

In 20 years, I can see how He's done this very thing in my life repeatedly. Romans 8:28 has become what I like to call my "life verse." It gives me hope that no matter how bad things may seem, He can use it for good beyond my imagination for HIS purpose - not to make me comfortable or happy, but so I may know Him more fully and acquire more of His character.

In this passage of Scripture, the apostle Paul does not say, "We know that some things or most things, but ALL things work for good. From the smallest to the most monumental, from mundane to crisis moments. ALL of them work - not have worked or will work, but are presently at work. He weaves this tapestry together to create a harmonious pattern He desires for His glory and His purpose so that we will reflect His son, Jesus.

As George Mueller said, "In one thousand trials it is not five hundred of them that work for the believer's good, but nine hundred and ninety-nine of them, and one beside."

In the midst of a year with multiple losses, I embrace the cross, my hope in Christ. My hope in His life at work in me and through me for His good purpose for eternity.