"All Things"

There’s a time for all on earth we do,

The Good Book tells it, so it’s true,

But why some things we must go through,

Are not so clear at all.

I’ve decided they must be,

So we can change and be set free,

From all that robs humanity,

Of God’s own perfect call.

He calls us based on His great plan,

Then makes us strong so we can stand,

Against all evil if we can,

And overcome the trial.

To build within us godly traits,

And helps us throw off all the weights,

Dispel the lies of twisted fates,

The Spirit-filled lifestyle.

Just a herdsman, that is me,

But by His grace all I can be,

And all is for my good, you see,

When called, and love the Lord.

And in the end the trials give way,

To our rewards on judgment day,

Good and faithful, hear Him say,

The promise of His word.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28, NLT)

This is one of the greatest promises of scripture. If one loves the Lord and cooperates with God’s calling, God uses everything that happens for His glory and our good. Amazing, don’t you think? It simply means that God transforms everything into the unified purpose of blessing us. Even the greatest failure or heartbreaking tragedy is used by His providential grace for our good. What does that do to and for us? It lets us know that in the “crap-shoot” of life nothing is wasted, but rather harnessed to enrich and enliven our existence. Only eternity will take the measure of how God has worked and what He has used for our benefit.

Lord, help us entrust ourselves to Your ongoing purpose and providential blessing, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Doug Monson, used by permission. Thanks, Doug, and God bless you.