Goodness #3—Conforming Good

God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. For whom he chose, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son. Romans 8:28–29

God’s voice booms out of Heaven, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” We remember these words and desire one day to hear them ourselves, referring to us. In the meanwhile, we struggle through the dangers and disasters of life, sometimes wondering if God is really aware of what’s happening to us. Not only is he aware, he is intimately involved in every detail. He is working for our good. By putting them through stressful learning situations medical school transforms students into doctors and basic training turns civilians into soldiers. In the same way, God conforms us to the image of his Son by placing us in situations similar to those Jesus experienced, situations in which we can choose to honor him as God and give thanks, even if it means trusting him to raise us from the dead. And just like Jesus, we have the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, to help us imitate the One who was tested by the suffering he experienced: the One who feared only God, the One who did not revile when he was reviled, the One who lay down his life for his friends. Because he overcame, we can also overcome.

“Eternal God you are a sun and shield. You give grace and glory. You withhold no good thing from those who walk uprightly. How blessed are those who trust in you!” Thank you for this great good in my life.