“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)
This verse is often quoted as though it appeared out of nowhere and stands alone in the midst of Scripture. Those who quote it as standing alone, intending (hopefully) to reassure us that all is well and that God will make everything alright; do a great injustice by leaving out the previous twenty seven verses.
These “lost” verses take great pains to describe for us who “those” are that are the called.
It is here that we find some 19 references to the Holy Spirit and of His role in our relationship with God.
He is mentioned here in Romans 8 more than in any other Book of the Bible, leading me to believe that His presence in our lives is of the utmost importance if indeed “all things” are to ultimately work for our good. We are herein instructed to embrace the Holy Spirit and follow His leading in all things which is evidence that we are “Sons of God” and have put aside the desires of the flesh in favor of Life in the Spirit.
Without doubt God is able to work it all out to His pleasure; His perfect will is that we willingly embrace God the Holy Spirit so that we can be those who reap the blessings of the called. It is also abundantly clear that it is only those who are led by the Spirit who, “are the called according to His purpose.”
Please, keep in mind that “work together for the good” does not mean that everything or experience is going to be pleasant in its time (see Job); ultimately though we will reap the blessings of living a Life in the Spirit if we continue to be led by Him.
Bro. Bobby Thornhill is a longtime pastor who lives in Sandy Hook. He may be reached at bobbyandjune@hotmail.com.
