Romans 8 (Part 3/3)

How many times have you heard someone quote Romans 8:28? "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." I love the message of this verse. But sometimes I think we use this scripture too narrowly. We put it in our own materialistic view. Other times we use it in the right context but at the wrong time. We might blurt it out when we don't know what else to say to a friend who is hurting. Many times they just need a listening ear. It's not your advice. It's not your cliches. It's your love. They need your love. They need to know that someone is there who loves them. Don't get me wrong. I wholeheartedly believe in the truth of that verse. But quoting it at the wrong time is like putting a band-aid on a gaping wound. Show them love through your actions, not just in your words.

God loves us. That doesn't mean we won't endure hardships. Paul certainly faced his share of sufferings. But if God is for us, then who can be against us? God's love saves us from our sins, from fear, from guilt and condemnation, from worry, and from anything else that is not of Him. God not only loves, He is the essence of love.

Do you love Him back? I mean, do you truly love God? Or do you only love the things He gives you? Satan challenged God on this issue in the Book of Job. Even though Job lost everything, he refused to curse or blame God. If you were put in Job's position, would you still be able to love God despite your circumstances?

Nothing can separate us from the love of God through Jesus Christ. I pray that today you feel that love, no matter what you're going through. That it gives you peace and strength in the midst of chaos. That it gives you freedom in letting go of past hurts or struggles. And in return, love your Father with everything you have.