“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”—Roman 8:28 NKJV
This oft-quoted verse testifies of the sovereignty of God, not to the beneficent outworking of circumstances. It does not say that God “wills” everything to happen, but that God takes everything that happens to us and makes it come together for good. In the words of Joseph, “you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good” (Genesis 50:20 MSG).
When we read the entirety of Romans 8 we see that Paul’s confidence that God will bring good out of evil comes from the grace God has already given. Mainly, the grace of adoption by which we are called His children and given the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14-17, 23). As His children, the Spirit helps us in our weakness and perfects our prayers to be in tune with the will of God (Romans 8:26-28).
With such grace, how can things not turn out for good? As God’s adopted children He cares for us as a parent does her/his child. (Matthew 7:11). And what are God’s plans for His children? 1. To be conformed to the image of the Son 2. To justify 3. To glorify (Romans 8:29-30). Despite the difficulties of life, our failures, and imperfections, God makes all things come together that all His Children may reflect the character of Jesus, be set free of sin, and be brought into communion with Him.
Trust that God is taking all the pieces of your life to bring good. For it is written: "where sin abounded, grace abounded much more” (Romans 5:20 NKJV).
—Pastor Alex Portillo