We know that all things work together for good to those who love God.  - Romans 8:28

When quoting Romans 8:28, we often begin with the words, "All things work together for good." But the verse really begins like this: "We know that all things work together for good to those who love God." Our knowing comes by faith. By faith we are confident that God will never disappoint us.

I read a story about a shipwreck. When the sole survivor reached a small, uninhabited island, he prayed for God to rescue him, but help didn't come. Eventually he built a hut out of driftwood for protection from the elements. One day he returned from scavenging for food and found his hut in flames, the smoke rising into the sky. Angrily he cried, "God, how could You do this to me?" The next morning he was awakened by rescuers. "How did you know I was here?" he asked. "We saw your smoke signal," they replied.

Pastor Lud Golz wrote, "Sometimes God's love almost seems like hatred because of the difficulties He allows to come our way. The final result, however, always confirms its true nature."

The next time it seems as if your last hope has gone up in smoke, remember what "we know" to be true (Romans 8:28). When God says that all things work together for good to those who love Him, He means all things!

-JEY

The trials we are going through
Can be misunderstood
Unless we realize that God
Works all things for our good.

-Sper

God may test our faith so we may trust His faithfulness.