If I’m being completely honest (and why wouldn’t I) I’m having a hard time with this one right now. This third verse in our series of 100 verses to memorize is a challenge for a lot of us. Not because of it’s length or difficulty. It’s because it seems hard to believe at times.
Our third verse to memorize is: Rom 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.”
Have you ever gone through a rough patch? Have you ever struggled through a tough situation? Ever had to fight off the winds of doubt? I have. I’m having to do that right now. It’s hard. There are not tools to fight the wind. It’s strong and comes from all directions.
Sometimes the struggles are of our own doing. In my opinion, dealing with this verse is easier when we know we’re the one to blame for our current circumstances.
But, when our struggles are brought on us by outside forces that seem completely unfair, this verse becomes more and more challenging to accept.
Of course, I guess that’s the point of the verse. Otherwise the verse would say, “And we know that in fair things, God works for the good…” But, it doesn’t say that. That’s not what Paul wrote. He was talking about suffering. “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (8:18)
And it is hoping that is the point. “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?” (8:24) We don’t hope for a house when we already have one. We may hope to keep our house when we’re unsure about where the money to pay rent will come from, but we don’t hope for what we already have.
There are more verses in our top 100 that come from this chapter. If you haven’t read it lately, now would be a good time. You might just get a little bit of hope.
