Reading: Romans 8:26-30

Verse 28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love God.”

Romans 8 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. Today and tomorrow we focus on the last portion. We open today’s verses with a great reminder that we have an advocate. Paul reminds us that the Holy Spirit helps us when we are weak by praying for us. These are not just random prayers. No, the Spirit searches our hearts and prays for exactly what we need. These prayers are awesome in two main ways. First, the Spirit prays for us according to God’s will. Second, this Spirit is the very Spirit of Christ – the one who walked among us, the one who knows our trials and struggles and temptations personally. We have a great team on our side!

In verse 28 we read, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love God.” We first note that Paul says, “in all things.” God does not cause all things. Yes, God designed the world and it operates according to God’s design. Death and disease and sin and poor choices are part of this world, and are part of “life.” God does not scheme and orchestrate, causing bad or difficult things to happen so that God can swoop in. Yes, our loving God will work through and in all that life can throw at us if we invite God in and if we seek God’s presence.

God designed us in “the likeness of God’s Son.” We are to be like Christ, the one who fully trusted in God. So in all things may we too turn to God, walking and living as Jesus Christ walked and lived, one day also rising to glory.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit and for the intercessions and guidance. Help me to listen better and to follow closer, seeking to be a part of living out your good will for me. Amen.