Romans 8:28-31

Highlighting – “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (v.28)

Romans 8:28 is one of those verses that has been overused by all people and often misused. When we see and hear the verse, the part that is always stated and overemphasized is “And God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God,” but rarely is the rest of the verse expressed. We all know everything that happens in our lives has a purpose. Although it may not make sense initially, in time, we come to understand why we had to go through what we did when we did. BUT what is very important about this verse is the latter portion “to those who are called according to His purpose.”

If we read the following verses we see, before time God knew who was going to answer His call to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior (this is known as the Doctrine of predestination and election, 1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Timothy 1:9). We, as believers, are of those people. The promise in verse 28 is for all Christians, not unbelievers. How do we know that? Paul says of those who love God and are called…you love God if you follow His commands (1 John 5:3) and He wants for all mankind to be saved so if you’ve accepted the saving faith (the call), then you are in line with His purpose for us (John 3:16). I’d like to note: it’s not just about loving God, but also being called according to His purpose (which excludes unbelievers from receiving this promise). 

What weighs heavy in this verse is not that things work together for our good, which is great – don’t get me wrong – but that God’s purpose is fulfilled no matter what. God’s purpose is the out working of our salvation to where we are glorified in Him (Romans 8:29-30). This goes beyond the physical blessings, but His eternal promise to us – a place in Heaven (John 14:3).

I included verse 31 into today’s devotion because as long as we’re children of God, nothing or no one can hurt us. What the enemy meant for evil God turns it for our good (Genesis 50:20), but you must believe in His Son Jesus Christ to receive this inheritance. If you haven’t accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, do not delay and do so today! Confess your sins to God who is ready and waiting for you to come to Him, but the only way you will be able to see Him and become His child is through His Son, Jesus Christ (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).

Dear God, thank You for the promise of salvation through faith in Your Son Jesus Christ. Help me to continue to trust in You knowing that no matter what the circumstance is in my life, You are working all things together for my good because I am Your child. When I read Your Word and commune with You in prayer, please reveal Your secrets to me as You did the prophets. In Jesus name I pray, amen.