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.
On Friday their hopes, dreams, and expectations were crushed. On Saturday they mourned and hid in fear. On Sunday they were amazed at the power of God and rejoiced because of the resurrection.
Many Christians mistakenly believe that serving God means they should never face disappointment, heartache, or suffering. The misunderstanding comes mainly from the truth that God does not fail. The reasoning is that since God does not fail and He has good plans for us (Jeremiah 29:11) so our lives should be good. While it is absolutely true that God never fails, the Bible clearly teaches that trouble and suffering will come.
Those following Jesus must have had high expectations on Palm Sunday. Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem was triumphant. The people were publicly worshiping Him. Their theology of the Messiah ushering in a golden age for Israel seemed on the verge of being realized. Less than a week later, Jesus was dead and they were in fear of being hunted down and executed themselves.
God had not failed but their theology had. We know that the crucifixion was an integral part of God’s plan. We also know that their theology regarding the Messiah was flawed. They hadn’t learned those lessons yet so they were confused, afraid, and despondent.
Everyone has pain, illness, sadness, and heartbreak in their lives. It doesn’t mean God has failed. It may not even mean you have failed. It may just be that this period is Friday or Saturday for you. Sunday is coming. It will work out for good IF you love God and are called to His purpose.
Yes, the promise in today’s passage is conditional. For God to work everything for good we must love Him, which means being obedient (John 14:15), and we need to be living the life He has called us to live. If those two conditions are met, then we can be confident that in due time, whatever we are going through will bring about good.
Almighty God, I know You are sovereign and always in control. I ask for the strength, courage, and faith to persevere when You allow, or cause, unpleasant or painful periods in my life.