In All Things
Date: September 18, 2023
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B - Bible Verse: Romans 8:28 - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
L - Listen for God's Word and pray: Prayer: Gracious God, I come before you with a heart full of gratitude for the assurance in today’s scripture. I thank you for your promise to work all things together for good in the lives of those who love you and are called according to your purpose. Please help me to trust in this promise, especially during times of uncertainty or difficulty. Let your Word dwell in me richly, reminding me of your providence and unfailing love. Amen.
E - Explore the History and Meaning: The book of Romans was written by the apostle Paul to the Christians in Rome. In this verse, Paul is addressing believers and assuring them of God's sovereignty over their lives. He emphasizes that God can bring about good even in the midst of trials and challenges. This verse is a powerful reminder that God is at work in every aspect of our lives, orchestrating circumstances for our ultimate good. This doesn't mean that everything that happens to us is inherently good, but rather that God can bring good out of any situation, no matter how difficult or painful it may be. This verse invites us to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, knowing that He is in control and that His purpose will prevail.
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases:
"All things" - This phrase emphasizes the comprehensive scope of God's working.
"God works for the good" - God is actively involved in our lives, ensuring that His good purposes are fulfilled.
"Those who love him" - This refers to believers who have a personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ.
"Called according to his purpose" - Believers are called by God to fulfill His divine plan and purpose for their lives.
S - Summarize and Share: Devotional:
This verse is like a lighthouse guiding us through the darkest storms of life. It speaks to our hearts in moments when we are confused, when trials seem unbearable, and when setbacks threaten to knock us down.
I've walked through seasons where life felt like a tangled mess of confusion and disappointment. Moments when it seemed that every step forward was met with two steps back. I’m pretty sure most of you have been there too—wondering why things aren't going as planned, questioning your purpose, or facing challenges that seem impossible to overcome.
In the middle of these trials, Romans 8:28 stands as a firm foundation. It whispers to our weary souls that even in these moments of uncertainty, God is at work. It's not about the absence of pain or the avoidance of obstacles; it's about His promise to use every circumstance, no matter how challenging, for our ultimate good.
Looking back on my own life, I can see the hand of God weaving a beautiful tapestry from threads of confusion and disappointment. In moments where I felt lost, He was leading me closer to His heart. In setbacks that left me disheartened, He was preparing me for greater victories. It's a process, a journey of trust, and it's not always easy. But with each step forward, even if it feels like a stumble, we can hold on to the assurance that God is working diligently behind the scenes.
When life throws its curveballs, and you find yourself in the middle of trials and confusion, remember Romans 8:28. Embrace it as a promise that God is not finished with your story. He's taking every setback, every moment of doubt, and using it to shape you into the person He's designed you to be.
Let's lean into this truth, holding tight to the knowledge that our heavenly Father is an expert at turning life's messes into beautiful messages of hope and redemption.
4 Bible Cross References:
Genesis 50:20 - "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."
Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."
Psalm 34:8 - "Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him."
2 Corinthians 4:17 - "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."