Today’s 333 Devotional: “God’s Overriding Good”

The Apostle Paul had an unwavering confidence that the goodness of God would override everything that occurs in life. This is seen in his classic statement to the Roman church.

“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.” (Romans 8:28)

Paul believed that God makes everything turn out for the best, which then renders complaining an unthinkable occurrence since everything in life was either planned or permitted by God. (See Job)

Oswald Sanders said, “With God accidents are not accidental and adversity is not adverse.”

It is this unwavering belief that allowed Paul and Silas to sing praises even while they were in prison with their backs bleeding and their feet in stocks. So long as they knew and loved God, called according to His purpose, and living out that calling, then even this event would turn out to good. And history proves this out.

So here’s the question, “Can this assurance be ours?” To answer that question two conditions must be met.

First, this promise of good is only available for those who are in a correct relationship with God through a new birth, or “Of those who love Him.”

Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again” (John 3:3).

This takes place when we come to belief in Jesus Christ, asking to be forgiven and then accepting His forgiveness for our sins as He took our place upon the cross and died the death we all deserve.

The Second condition is that they must be living their lives in partnership with God, or “Who have been called according to His purpose.”

The central statement that all things work together for good cannot be isolated from these two conditional clauses. Therefore, this promise has no meaning to those who are living in rebellion to God, His will, ways, and word.