
Romans 8:28 "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him."
Scattered in the forest along mountain trails lie the decaying hulks of downed trees. The passing hiker notices them but doesn't always realize their value. Small animals and birds use them for shelter. Delicate plants grow on and around them. Gradually these trees enrich the ground for other vegetation. Even decaying trees have their use.
As we follow life's trail, we hardly notice some incidents that happen. Other experiences are painful, forcing us to be aware of them but not always of any good purpose they serve. Much in life seems rather pointless.
But God reveals that "in all things" He is working for our good when we love Him because of Jesus, who died and rose as our Savior.
That promise can be very comforting when painful things happen. But if He works "in all things," we can look for good even in what might at first seem insignificant. We won't always understand the why or realize the good He intends. But if we try, we often will find unexpected meaning or blessing in what otherwise we might have taken for granted.
PRAYER: Lord, help us to appreciate more fully today Your work in everything and make it occur for our good. Amen.
(Taken from "Words of Promise," copyright 1996, Concordia Publishing House (out of print). For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800-325-3040.)
Today's Bible Readings: Psalms 24-26 John 10:22-42
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