“Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men,[a] put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
Acts 2:22-24  

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

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I have been among many Christians who will cite Romans 8:28 as though it applies universally, exclusively focused on the “all things”. Allow me to call your attention to “for the good” and “called according to his purpose” as well. 

When I restrain my toddler from running into the street against their dramatic protests, it is for the good, for their protection. When I mark a student’s math test, indicating the incorrect answers, because they haven’t mastered the skill, it is for the good, for their growth. When I had to walk around in an uncomfortable orthopedic boot to keep my achilles tendon stable, it was for the good, for my healing. Quite honestly, good doesn’t always feel good. Learning is uncomfortable. If you don’t feel a wee bit off balance, you are probably not acquiring a new skill. Safety may feel restraining because you’re not aware of the true danger. Healing often feels itchy at best or completely draining at worst.

When Jesus endured the excruciating ordeal of the crucifixion, it was for our good—a restored relationship with God the Father. Reconciliation is messy, and Jesus took it all upon Himself. With gratitude in our hearts, we can then turn to the second phrase.

God’s energy to work all things for good is given to those called according to His purpose. Therefore, we endeavor to live a life according to His purpose. The good we receive from the Lord is so that we can continue our ministry more effectively in our own growth and healing. His purpose for us seems simple. In your sphere of influence, talk about Jesus, show Jesus in your actions, and spend time with Him in Scripture and prayer. As we grow in our understanding and relationship with Him, we will see His good in our lives—good that frequently feels delightful, and good that sometimes brings a heavy sigh. To be more like Jesus, the ultimate good, we need to try to devote ourselves to His purpose. Sensing Him working in our lives is good.

Next Steps

Read Acts 2 and Romans 8, and remember these words were penned to the early Christians who were being persecuted daily for their faith in Jesus. These verses were meant to encourage them to continue a strong witness in the face of true adversity and give them hope in the very real presence of God.

Perhaps look back to the Old Testament with this song from Rend Collective and remember David and Daniel. Both tried to live a life in God’s purpose, and both were met with great adversity and great success. Relax, smile, be uplifted and inspired.

Don’t forget, this summer, we are committing to a goal of 50,000 Acts of Service! As we continue on in our Unleashed series, we want to be the hands and feet of Jesus to our neighbors in our communities. You can log your act of service here. Let’s be bold, commit to acts of kindness, and witness God move powerfully through our communities!