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NASB | Romans 8:28 ¶ 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. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Romans 8:28 ¶ And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose. |
Subject: God working for our good |
Bible Note: Dear Momma, Great questions, ma'am. Good ones to ask, too! (Excuse the haste of my post, as I must be in bed very soon.) I have to pause, though, and thank you for that awesome testimony: "I've had quite a journey this past year. Wouldn't wish it on anyone, but I wouldn't trade it for the world - God has been SO amamzing and SO GOOD to me!" (sic) This is precisely what I've been talking about. Praise God. I heard or read a sermon -- I cannot recall the source at the moment -- where the preacher asked, "Would you trade the tiniest affliction from the hand of the Lord for an entire mountain of gold?" Of course, we promptly say, no... but doesn't that question expose our heart to careful scrutiny? After all, our afflictions prove to us that God loves us (Hebrews 12:5-11), and is always followed by "the peaceable fruit of righteousness." In addition to that, through the affliction, the Holy Spirit comforts us and ultimately -- yes, no matter what! -- ultimately restores us to a far better state, and closer relationship with Him! What a deal? So then, I wonder, why do people pray for cross-less lives? (As you've pointed out, the crosses are priceless!) I'd even venture that it would be a scary thing to have a life without affliction! (Psalm 18:27) With regard to the temptation of Christ, think in terms of testing or, perhaps even better, proving. I worked once for a company that recovered precious metals from manufacturing waste. A large pile of gold bearing waste had no value until the laboratory had accurately assayed the gold content. Similarly, how can we talk of the strength of muscles unless we take their measure with weights. The Lord Jesus Christ was proven righteous in all the ways our first parents failed. He was not just righteous, He was PROVEN righteous! In the same way, as believers are tested (Jeremiah 17:10), what is proven is the mighty power of God through the gospel, to His glory and our joy. "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed." (1 Peter 4:12-13 ESV) I hope that this helps a bit. God bless you in your study of James! In Him, Doc |