¹⁸ I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us…

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. ²⁹ For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. ³⁰ And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. 

~Romans 8:18; 28-30

Have you ever thought that God may have a greater purpose for us than just making us happy?

I love the verse 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.” But if you look at the verses around it, a larger perspective seems to be given.

In verse 18 of Chapter 8, Paul writes that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Also, connected to the end of Romans 8:28 (regarding God working all things for our good) is verse 29, which states: “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.”

God wants to conform His children into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ! In this way, He receives the glory that He is due. And many times, He uses trials in our lives to make us more like Jesus.

Yes, God works out everything for our good, and He wants what is best for us. I believe this wholeheartedly! But sometimes He may accomplish His work in us through circumstances that we would not choose for ourselves. Circumstances that are difficult; uncomfortable; trying. But He knows what He is doing, and He knows that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (vs 18). He has a greater purpose!

This is often difficult to believe and accept. Truthfully, I am having a hard time wrestling with this truth right now. Over the past week, circumstances and situations have not been ideal. They have not turned out the way that I would have wanted. It seems as if my prayers are not being answered.

But I must believe that God knows what He is doing, and that He is working all of these difficult situations out for my good–and to make me more like Christ!

If you are struggling with difficult circumstances today and are feeling discouraged, do not lose heart! God does have a purpose, and He does have a plan. He does know what is best for us; and even though the path may be difficult and not what we would call ideal, in His great love for us He is working it all out for our good–both in this lifetime and for eternity!