Romans 8:28 is a
text that has comforted many believers for two millennia. Its words speak
comfort to those who are suffering, who long to be free of a fallen world where
sin and death still seem to reign. Paul reminds us, “And we know that for those
who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called
according to his purpose.” This passage rests on the unshakeable foundation of
God’s sovereignty: his rule and authority over everything in life.
What does it
mean to trust God’s sovereignty in our suffering? First, it means to believe
that no matters our circumstances, the Lord’s will shall be done. The Psalmist
assures us, “Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases” (115:3)
and again, “Whatever the LORD pleases, he does, in heaven and on earth, in the
seas and all deeps” (135:6). As believers we are “predestined according to the
purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will” (Eph.
1:11). We trust that God’s purpose will be accomplished no matter what befalls
us in this life.
Second, it means
to believe that nothing, not even Satan, can come against us without God’s permission.
Satan could not attack Job within God’s explicit allowance (Job 1-2). The demons
cannot even enter pigs without Jesus’ say so (Mark 5:1-20). We may not know why
the Lord allows certain things to come upon us at certain times, but we can
know he is still in control of it.
Third, it means
to believe God’s ultimate purposes are for our good. He uses suffering to
conform us more fully to the image of Christ (Rom. 8:28-29; 2Cor. 4:16-18). Adversity
may overtake us, but it will not overcome us (Rom. 8:31-39). God’s glory will
eclipse everything that has come before (Rm. 8:18). Therefore, we do not lose
heart. Believer, trust in the Lord! -JME
