And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who are called according to His purpose. - Romans 8:28 (NASB)
When going through difficulties, it may be hard to see any good. A family friend uses this expression frequently, “Life is difficult at best!” With that in mind, how can failures or bad situations turn into good? Whatever happens, God says, “all things.”
People have shared their story with me regarding time spent in prison for a mistake they made as a young adult. During their time in prison, they learned a trade and learned to play a musical instrument. Out of that difficulty arose a testimony, by using the trade to own a business and their instrument for worship. Other's lives can now be touched through their mistake if they are willing to share their story. Mine was. Christ found them where they were at in life, and it was up to them to accept Christ as Lord and allow Christ to work in their situation.
Dwelling on the mistake is not where God wants us to stay, He wants us to direct our thinking to Him and His ways. “He causes all things”- Divorce, prison, bankruptcy, addictions etc. to “work together for good.”
Christ is the answer, He is our hope. He gives us some soul-work by practicing Philippians 4:8 (NASB) “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything, worthy of praise, dwell on these things.”
If you haven’t read about Joseph or Job’s experiences, please read about them and see how God worked in their lives after severe hardships. - Genesis 37:24; 39:19-23, Job.
Is there something that comes to mind that the Lord has been calling you to dwell on? Maybe it is Jesus who is letting you know He has a purpose for you. Will you allow Him to work in your life? He would love to help.
This devotion by author, Terrie Miles, is exclusively and solely shared with permission to New Beginnings Church. Any unauthorized printed reproduction, sharing or use of this material is prohibited.
