CONVICTION CANCELS COMPLAINING

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)

“This sentence, interpreted in its context, can bring unlimited comfort and cheer to the Christian in time of testing. With Pauls it was a matter of profound conviction: “And we know that all things work together for good.” No room for question here. He had unwavering confidence in the overruling providence of God. He believed that “God makes everything turn out for the best” (Schofield). For him this conviction rendered complaining unthinkable since every event of life was either planned or permitted by God. It made possible of achievement his counsel of perfection, “In everything give thanks.” It turned sighing into singing. It was a practical embracing of this truth which enabled him and his companion to sing at midnight even when plans seemed to miscarry and they were immured in a dungeon, with bleeding backs. To him it mattered little whether physical conditions were propitious so long as he knew he loved God and was called according to His purpose. Everything, whether seemingly adverse of advantageous, would certainly turn out for the best. The important question is, do we share Paul’s joyous assurance?

Paul couches his statement in such categorical terms that it is impossible to remain neutral in the face of its astounding claim. If it were somewhat qualifies or expressed in less dogmatic fashion it would be easier to accept….Interpreted in its context, with full value given to each word, there is no verse in the whole Scripture which will give such poise and serenity in the midst of tragedy, trial or disappointment.

The key to the interpretation of the central statement, “All things work together for good,” is that it must be neither isolated from its context nor divorced from its two conditional clauses – “to them that love God” and “to them that are called according to his purpose.” These two clauses determine and limit its application. The simplest fact is that all things do not without qualification work together for good for everybody. Nor does this verse claim that they do. Two things are pre-supposed.

First there must be correct relationship to God. The beneficiary under the promise is a member of God’s family, enjoying and manifesting the family affection. Such a person is persuaded that He who did not spare His own Son would never permit or ordain anything which was not for his ultimate good. Love trusts even when it cannot discern.

Then there is partnership. He is one of “the called” according to God’s eternal purpose and his plans have given way to God’s plan. To him it is inconceivable that God’s perfect design could be thwarted by anything really adverse to him. God is intermingling all things for his good. With his God, “accidents are not accidental and adversity is not adverse.” The conclusion is that God’s purpose unfolds to those whom He has called and who love Him in return. The promise has nothing for the man in rebellion against God and out of sympathy with His purposes…”