All Things for Our Benefit

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 Do you believe this statement as recorded by Paul? Do you believe that God uses ALL things for our good? Do you also believe that whatever happens to you – good or bad – God has allowed? Everything that happens to us will be used by God for the purpose of our growth in Him, if we will let Him. Whatever the circumstance, whatever the occasion, He can use it to bring us closer to Him and to become more like Him. I have learned this truth over and over. Going to Ontario this summer, we were traveling on Route 9 through Maine. The van we were driving started shaking and making noise. My husband pulled off the road, onto a beautiful turning spot (that the Lord provided), and saw two lugs had broken off the front driver’s side tire. Looking back toward the road, he found both lugs on the ground in the space close to where we had parked. After tightening the remaining lugs, we ventured into Brewer and after much prayer and God’s hand leading us, we were repaired and once again on the road. Through all of it, I did have a moment or two of worry, but mostly a heart-cry to God asking, “What do you want us to learn from this, Lord?” When you are in the midst of a crisis or troubled time, do you cry out, “Why me?” or do you ask, “What do you want me to learn from this?” Believe me, I am far from perfect and I have far to go in my walk with Christ, but I am learning and growing through the circumstances of my life. One thing I know without a doubt is this: when I keep my eyes on Christ, viewing the problems through Him, I am much more at peace and my faith grows. When I see the problem first, fear takes over. Do you believe that God is in control and He truly wants what is best for you? Do you realize that He died for you and me, to pardon us from all our sins? Do you understand that the promises contained in the Bible are for anyone who will humble themselves before Him and ask for His forgiveness? Jesus loves you. He is waiting for you to say the word. Trust Him to know what is necessary in your life to make you more like Him. When times of trial come along, and they will, ask, “What do you want me to learn from this, Lord?” and quietly listen for His answer. Remember, He is in control and what He does is for our benefit.