And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
-Romans 8:28, NKJV
Sometimes, Christians use this verse to short-circuit the grieving process. They try to silence someone in pain by quoting this at them.
That is unhelpful.
While I believe the Bible is true, I also understand that the application of its truth takes timing and wisdom. This verse is true, I believe. But it does NOT mean what was done to us was good!
The hope found in this verse is that God can take any situation–even one rife with adulterous sin–and turn it to good. He redeems.
I see this verse as an invitation to choose to have faith in God. When we cannot see is when we need faith. In general, we cannot see when we are in the thick of the mess.
We can then take this verse as an anchor trusting in God:
We are placing a bet on God that He is both good and can redeem our pain.*
In my experience, God is a good bet. This blog is a testimony to God redeeming a very awful situation and my pain from it.
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*We might not see the good on this side of life, yet God is faithful, and I trust He will keep His word.
Well said !! In my situation, I needed soul surgery to heal a childhood emotional wound and God used a metaphorical scalpel ( adultery cuts deep) in order to clean out the infection (shame). Glory be to God ❣️
“When we cannot see is when we need faith. In general, we cannot see when we are in the thick of the mess.“
I agree and this is the reminder I needed at this exact moment. July was full of emotional land mines and I am upset that my faith has suffered because of it.
Thank you, DM!