Do you believe God has a purpose behind every problem? Have you recognized that He uses circumstances in your life to draw you closer to Himself? Problems force us to look to God and depend on Him instead of ourselves. You will never know God is all you need until God is all you have!
In this week's lesson, (Day 24 & 25) we take a closer look at one of the most misquoted and misunderstood verses in the Bible - Romans 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.
As part of God's purpose to make us more like His Son, we have to see problems from His point of view. Taking this verse apart, phrase by phrase, helps us see that more clearly.
And we know: Our hope in difficult times is a certainty based on the truths that God is in complete control.
that in all things: God's plan for your life involves all that happens to you - the good and the bad. Nothing is independent or separate from God's purposes.
God works: Your life is not a result of random chance, fate or luck. There is a Master plan.
for the good: This doesn't mean everything in life is good. God's purpose (our character development) is greater than our problems or pain.
of those who love him, who have been called: This promise is only for God's children.
according to his purpose: What is that purpose? That we become like His Son (Romans 8:29a). Everything God allows to happen in your life is permitted for this purpose!
So when troubles come, and they will, what will your response be? Will you cling to the promises from Romans 8:28? Ask Why me God? or What do you want me to learn from this that will make me more like your Son?
Download the lesson handout and audio link here!
Here's my friend's blog from the Boston Marathon bombing. Anita and her family were in Boston for the race. http://nitasliferunning.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-aftermath-boston-bombings.html
I don't remember a time in my life when I haven't had health challenges. I always will, but I have gone on and have hope because of Jesus Christ. I have almost died more than once, been paralyzed temporarily from illness, been too weak to talk, Have had to crawl because I was too weak as a child to walk and play on my feet,I've had school in the hospital and at home, been discriminated by at school and work, and been rejected for things, and by people more than once because of my issues. But what I have come to know and appreciate in life through my sustanance and faith in Jesus Christ is worth everything. Someone said to me this week "You have no life." She was wrong. I have a rich life with loving, faithful parents and a strong relationship with Jesus Christ. I appreciate serving God because often I have not been able to. I cherish serving Him so much that I become sad if I think I can not do enough for God. No person or job or thing will get you through lasting trouble in the way faith in Jesus Christ will. I sometimes get hung up these days on what I am not accomplishing....forgive me Lord, Jesus! I even forget how much you have brought me through and do each day to get me through. I've come far with God, and I look very much forward to the day He welcomes me home.
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