"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren." Romans 8: 28-29
We've probably all heard the first part of this passage. Romans 8:28 is often quoted when something difficult or seemingly impossible comes to fruition that seems good or fit to God's righteous plan. And in a way, I think that is a viable interpretation, as long as the definition of "good" matches with God (see the previous post). But I personally think that it actually means something deeper if you look at the context.
Romans, at least the first 8 chapters, is perhaps the most complete look at Christian doctrine as a bigger picture. Chapters 1 through 3 are a comprehensive diagnosis of our chronic condition, sin. Chapters 4 and 5 describe the only way we can be freed from the death caused by that chronic condition, salvation by grace through faith, not by works, thanks only to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. And chapters 6 through 8 breakdown how we continuously grow in that grace, being sanctified (or permanently changed) as we cling to Him.
When we choose to receive our salvation by grace through faith, it is finished. We are free of the penalty of sin, which is death, but we're not magically changed into perfection. Salvation is simply the moment when our trust in Christ the King affords us the forgiveness He paid for on the cross. Our spirit is invigorated, awakened from a worldly slumber as it joins forces with the Holy Spirit of God. It's a one time event that lasts for eternity.
But the process of growth in the grace of God is continuous for as long as we live. As we grow and develop a more intimate relationship with the Spirit, all of the goodness of God works together for our good, conforming us to the image of Christ (making us more like Him). My soul (my mind, will and emotions) begins to reflect the image of God already formed in my spirit through salvation. As my soul changes, it begins to project outwardly through my body, making Christ visible through me. All things working together for my good, so that I may reflect His good, which, as I pointed out in the previous post, is the only true good.
Father, thank You for saving me, freeing me from the death my flesh had afforded me at birth. I am truly grateful for Your gift. Now continue to mold and shape me into the image of Christ, so that I can complete Your will in my life, fulfilling the only good that exists in this world, Your good. Praise You for Your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.
We've probably all heard the first part of this passage. Romans 8:28 is often quoted when something difficult or seemingly impossible comes to fruition that seems good or fit to God's righteous plan. And in a way, I think that is a viable interpretation, as long as the definition of "good" matches with God (see the previous post). But I personally think that it actually means something deeper if you look at the context.
Romans, at least the first 8 chapters, is perhaps the most complete look at Christian doctrine as a bigger picture. Chapters 1 through 3 are a comprehensive diagnosis of our chronic condition, sin. Chapters 4 and 5 describe the only way we can be freed from the death caused by that chronic condition, salvation by grace through faith, not by works, thanks only to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. And chapters 6 through 8 breakdown how we continuously grow in that grace, being sanctified (or permanently changed) as we cling to Him.
When we choose to receive our salvation by grace through faith, it is finished. We are free of the penalty of sin, which is death, but we're not magically changed into perfection. Salvation is simply the moment when our trust in Christ the King affords us the forgiveness He paid for on the cross. Our spirit is invigorated, awakened from a worldly slumber as it joins forces with the Holy Spirit of God. It's a one time event that lasts for eternity.
But the process of growth in the grace of God is continuous for as long as we live. As we grow and develop a more intimate relationship with the Spirit, all of the goodness of God works together for our good, conforming us to the image of Christ (making us more like Him). My soul (my mind, will and emotions) begins to reflect the image of God already formed in my spirit through salvation. As my soul changes, it begins to project outwardly through my body, making Christ visible through me. All things working together for my good, so that I may reflect His good, which, as I pointed out in the previous post, is the only true good.
Father, thank You for saving me, freeing me from the death my flesh had afforded me at birth. I am truly grateful for Your gift. Now continue to mold and shape me into the image of Christ, so that I can complete Your will in my life, fulfilling the only good that exists in this world, Your good. Praise You for Your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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