The Pathway of Goodness.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
Have you ever struggled with this verse? Ever questioned God with some serious anger, challenging him to show you how he could possibly bring any good out of a trauma or drama in your life? Let's face it, there are curve balls that get aimed our way, but then there are those events in life that absolutely rip the rug right out from underneath us. Things like the death of a beautiful baby or an adult son or daughter, loss of a job that seemed forever secure, or hearing the words, "I'm done" on a beautiful sunny day.
Romans 8:28 holds the choice to push away or to pull in.
Facing trauma in my early 20's, I chose to push away. I chose anger and distrust simply because of this very verse. Facing trauma in my early 40's, I made a decision to pull in. I asked God to clarify his words to me. And here is what I have found to be true. God does not orchestrate catastrophes in order to say, "Cheer up! It's all working together for the good!" Rather, despite traumatic events that take place in life, God continues to work on my behalf. He's in it with me. He promises never to leave me or accidentally forget about me. He promises that if I chose to pull in, he will provide the healing. A cure happens in the physical, but healing happens in the heart. There is no healing if we choose to push away. As we allow God to apply his healing touch, we begin to grow and out of that growth we are required to change. When we change, we can never be the same, not ever. As we recognize change, we recognize his goodness.
It's a process, that's for sure! And pretty risky business! As you recognize God's goodness, you will also be able to see his plan and his purpose over your life.
So, I challenge you today, make a conscious choice to pull in to Romans 8:28. See the pathway of goodness.
