Discussion Board Forum One Tread: Chapter 6 – Working All Things Together for Good
Chapter 6, Romans 8:28 (ESV), “And we know that for those who love God all
things
work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose” is the chapter and
verse I have chosen. There have been many times that I have used this verse both as society sees
it—for success in health and finance with absolutely no trials in life; and I have used it as eternal
gain—for that day when I am present with the Lord. I have used this verse with most Christians
when they are battling a trial, as a source of survival, when I know the most heartbreaking part of
their battle is finished. When I lost my son, a few people (Christians) quoted this verse to me,
and it was not something I desired to hear, not at the dawn of my sorrow. Also, I have used this
verse with non-Christians in encouraging them that God is working in their life situations.
According to Bargerhuff, this verse does not apply to everyone; it is intended for all
Christians, and not non-Christians. Bargerhuff purposes that, “all things in the Christian life is
designed for the ultimate good of bringing glory to God, of advancing His kingdom purposes,
making Christians more holy, filling Christians with love, bringing about humility, developing a
Christian’s patience, cultivating a Christian’s trust in God.” In other words, for God’s ultimate
good, and a Christian’s spiritual growth. No matter what happens in a Christian’s life, through
tragedies and evils, God is working things out for His good. For instance, John 2:2-3 (LEB)
states, “And His disciples asked Him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that
he should be born blind?” Jesus replied, “Neither this man sinned nor his parents, but it
happened so that the works of God could be revealed in him.”” Not all things are good in a
Christian’s life, bad things do happen, but God works them out for His good.
Based on Bargerhuff conclusion, Romans 8:28 provides hope, encouragement, and
support, because God created us, Genesis 1:27, He transforms us (Christians), Romans 12:2
(LEB), “And do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind,
so that you may approve what is the good and well-pleasing and perfect will of God.” Just like it
is a student’s goal to attain a degree, it should be a Christian’s goal and purpose to be more like
God, and less like a non-Christian. The more a Christian transforms their mind in the Word of
God, the more established their spiritual growth to that good, well-pleasing perfect will of God.
Even when the storms of life occur, Christians can be encouraged, because of God’s goodness
presently and eternally. 1 Peter 4:12-14 (LEB), “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery
ordeal among you, when it takes place to test you, as if something strange were happening to
you. But to the degree that you share in the sufferings of Christ, rejoice, so that also at the
revelation of His glory you may rejoice and be glad. If you are reviled on account of the name of
Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” James 1:12 (LEB),
“Blessed is the person who endures testing, because when he is approved he will receive the
crown of life that He has promised to those who love Him.”
