Does God bring good out of bad?
“God causes all things to work together for good…”
All things means ALL things, Everything apparently good. Everything apparently bad. The truly bad. The good, the bad, the horrible. ALL things.
… to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
The familiar promise applies ONLY to those who are in a love relationship with God, ONLY to His children. The promise does not apply to those who have rejected Jesus Christ. (See Becoming a Child of God.)
But what does “good” mean?
If we lose a job, does that mean we can expect Him to replace it with a better job? If our home burns down, is there a better house right around the corner?
Well, maybe. But the verse does not promise better material things.
The next two verses explain “good.” First, He is conforming His children into the image of His beloved Son. Second, He promises our glorification. He promises He will use ALL things to improve our moral character, our inward goodness, to develop the fruit of the Spirit in us, to make us more fruitful, to eternally glorify us.
Benefits of Trials:
If you are struggling with this, I suggest you read the New Testament listing the temporal benefits of trials. (And then the eternal benefits of trials.) Here is a starter list:
We gain perseverance, proven character, and hope. Romans 5:3-4
Our endurance improves. James 1:3-4
We’re pruned in order to bear more fruit. John 15:2
Our inner man is being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16
Our ability to comfort others is enhanced. 2 Corinthians 1:4
Paul tells us that our momentary affliction does not compare to the eternal weight of glory. Romans 8:18
And, through it all, we have the presence, love, guidance, and hope of our Savior. (See Joy in the Journey.)
Natural vision or Spiritual?
Our natural vision is deeply flawed, causing us to view our world through a material, temporal mindset. As we mature in Christ, however, we increasingly see everything through a spiritual lens. Only God can truly see.
Pray for clear vision to properly interpret your trial.
The best is yet to come.
