All of us have said at one time or another, “You just can’t be sure of anything.” Life is full of so many uncertainties. We wonder what will happen next.
We ask ourselves are we the playthings of time and circumstance? Is there no place to stand, no foundation on which we can build? Is it really true that we cannot be sure of anything? Not at all!
For you see that glaring generality stands in direct contrast to the glorious certainties revealed in the Word of God. Briefly, let us look at two of them as presented by Paul in the surpassingly, beautiful, and comforting words of Romans 8.
In Christ, There Is No Condemnation! Paul uses exceptionally forceful language. He does not speak of disapproval censure or discipline; he asserts there is no condemnation.
Now the word, “therefore” links the thought very closely to that which proceeds. As you know, in the opening chapter of this epistle, he stresses the sinfulness of men, exposing the folly of relying on good works or “righteousness according to the law” for salvation magnifies the grace of God. Like Abraham of old, we are justified by faith.
Paul says there is no condemnation for believers in Christ, those who have recognized their depravity and have turned to Christ for deliverance.
And the reason for this is Christ, the Son of God, who as the substitute for sinful humanity, suffered and died for their sins.
He took our guilt on Himself and endured the punishment we deserved.
This is the good news of the gospel. The gospel according to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, as well as the gospel according to Paul. No condemnation! Salvation for those “in Christ Jesus,” is one of Paul’s favorite expressions.
Can you be sure? Yes, you can. “There is no condemnation, for those who are in Christ Jesus!”
Another thing you can be sure of is that: “God works all things for the good of those who love Him.”
Now, I know some of us question that. It is hard to believe. It appears to be contradicted by daily experience. Life is full of disappointments, expectations unfulfilled, hopes shattered, plans that go awry. The sea we sail is not always smooth, and the road we travel can be very uneven.
But it is nevertheless true that for believers who exercise and cultivate their faith, life is full of contentment and victory. Disappointment is temporary, and frustration gives way to confidence and hope. If we love the Lord, we must know and do know that He loves us.
Now to understand then what Paul is saying: All things work together. We must not view experiences in isolation but view them in relation to God’s whole plan for us. We are so shortsighted that we draw unwarranted conclusions. Things that we consider detrimental mysterious are part of God’s gracious plan. They are for our good. It is necessary and wise to watch and wait.
Our assurance that all things work for good is rooted in God’s sovereign purpose and love. He is working out His plan in our lives. We are under his control, and progress on the avenue of life is under his direction. And since he is our loving Father, we must trust Him even when we do not understand!
Do children always understand their parents? Of course not!
Often we cannot grasp God’s meaning, and we misunderstand His intent. We are confused and fearful.
Yes, Beloved, everything will be alright. Everything will work out. And this is no exaggeration. For when we penetrate to the essence of what Paul is saying when he insists, “that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose.“ We realize that Paul is asserting that God never contradicts the love He has expressed for his children on the cross of Calvary. All that he does in our lives is consistent with His grace our redemption.
All of our days are not pleasant. Many experiences in life are very trying. We are not always cheerful, but we can be happy we know that we are blessed.
God’s children are never put to shame. Jesus can and will work it out. Of this, you can be sure!!!
This is Rev Dr. Wm. Rocky Brown, 3rd letting you know that GOD and I Love you, and we approve this message because we want to motivate your mind, body, and soul. So be happy and enjoy the blessings of The LORD today, my friend!
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