Seeing God's Hand in our Lives

The presence of difficulties in our lives is not evidence of the absence of God's hand in our lives.

In America, Christians can get deceived into believing this.  In a lifestyle where far more than just needs are met, we can get to where we believe that our walk with God is all about our successes.  God has a different take in Romans.

Romans 8:28-30 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.

Cards everywhere say, "all things to work together for good to those who love God," but these are not the trite words we can make them into.  Where we say, God is going to make my life work for MY idea of good.  No, in the above passage these are words of solace to those who are gutting out their faith while going through very difficult trials.  This is where this scripture derives eternal significance.  I praise God that he gives us great victories and mountain tops, but we usually get to appreciate these most after the deep dark valleys.  In the valley we can choose to be thankful.  At the very least we can thank Him for the presence of His Holy Spirit, for considering us friends, of looking favorable from Heaven above with empathetic eyes of love AND favor.  Read James 1 to see His purpose for trials.

As this passage from Romans continues, Paul talks about being conformed to His image and His being Glorified.  Are these not the fruits that follow our trials.  All things, whether the our inevitabilities of loss in this life or great evils perpetrated on us, He will bring good.  He is good and will never stop being good.  Good is what God just is.  In these trials He conforms us to His will and in that He is glorified.

And yes, even in our failures and weaknesses He is there.  He doesn't just pull up stakes and leave us when we mess up.  He will never leave us or forsake us.  It is actually at those times we finally begin to listen to Him.

So next time you are weathering the trials of life, whether due to the things beyond your control or due to your failed humanity, you are in His favor.  You have His presence to carry you through.  All who seek the cover of His Son's overwhelming forgiveness, have this privilege, have this promise.  ALL circumstances work together for your good, "O favored one! The Lord is with you." Luke 1:28 (ESV).