Romans 8:28-32 “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. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. 31 What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Romani 8:28-32 “Or sappiamo che tutte le cose cooperano al bene di quelli che amano Dio, i quali sono chiamati secondo il suo disegno. 29 Perché quelli che ha preconosciuti, li ha pure predestinati a essere conformi all’immagine del Figlio suo, affinché egli sia il primogenito tra molti fratelli; 30 e quelli che ha predestinati li ha pure chiamati; e quelli che ha chiamati li ha pure giustificati; e quelli che ha giustificati li ha pure glorificati.31 Che diremo dunque riguardo a queste cose? Se Dio è per noi chi sarà contro di noi? 32 Colui che non ha risparmiato il proprio Figlio, ma lo ha dato per noi tutti, non ci donerà forse anche tutte le cose con lui?”
Earlier, Paul began this section of Romans (verse 18) talking about “our present suffering” that can accompany believers. As he moves toward these concluding thoughts, he gives a strong reminder concerning the will of God as we face difficult circumstances.
Notice that he begins with the concept that “we know”. The believer understands that the Holy Spirit dwells within us. It is an intuitive knowledge that although we may not understand the eternal issues that perplex us, we can have an internal sense that God is at work to make good out of it. There are very few people, if any, in the Scriptures that walked their spiritual journey without facing obstacles in their path.
Notice also the phrase “God works” that describes what He is doing in us even though we may endure suffering. God working in us may seem tough and wearisome but the goal at the end demonstrates more thoroughly His purpose in us.
Notice finally, after illustrating his point through the call and heading for glorification (v. 29-30), he gives us a ‘hallelujah moment’ by starting with “What, then” and concluding with “if God be for us”, then “who” (in addition to what, why, where, when and how) “can be against us?” This has become a popular phrase quoted by believers; but saying it and knowing it is the challenge for us every day.
Pray with me: Lord, I sometimes still ask questions as to ‘why’, ‘for what reason’ and ‘for how long’ about present day challenges. Help me to remember that Your purpose is being refined in me through all the experiences of my life.
