We know that God causes all things to work together for good for
Those who love God and are called according to his purpose." 
–Romans 8:28

"I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you.  I will give you
Hope and a good future."  –Jeremiah 29:11

I have heard the passage from Romans 8 many times, and often people
Misinterpret it.  I have heard people use this verse to say that God
Caused their suffering for some reason.  This is a wrong and
Fatalistic interpretation of what Paul the Apostle wrote.  Let's
Read it carefully:

1.    It does not say that God causes all things.  God is the
Creator of all things, but we are given free will to make choices,
Both good and bad.  Choices have consequences, and sometimes we
Suffer.

2.    It does say that God causes all things to work together for
Good!  This means that God can take to circumstances of your life
And use them together as opportunities for good, for growth, for
Healing, etc.

3.    It does not say that the "good" is what you want.  God has
Never promised to give you what you want, but only what you need.

4.    It does say that the "good" is according to God's purpose
And plan for your life.  God can use the good and the bad, the
Pleasure and the pain, the ease and the frustration, working them
Together to help lead you and grow you into the future God has
Planned for you.


Bringing It Home:
1.    Has life brought you some difficult times?  Are you having
Trouble seeing how any or all of your life can be working towards
Good?  Run to God in prayer, seeking God's wisdom and guidance to
Help you get through your difficulties, so that you can be blessed
And emerge stronger on the other side.

2.    We often need others to help us see bad times as
Opportunities for growth and change.  Who can help you see this?  Go
To them and ask them to help you seize the moment for God and thus
For good.

3.    Commit the passage from Jeremiah to memory.  Say it often to
Give yourself the assurance of God's goodness and his intention to
Bless you through good and bad circumstances.

Prayer:
Lord God, many times all I can see is the trouble and the pain in my
Life.  Help me to see the good and help me to take my life as it is
Today and grow spiritually through everything I am experiencing. 
Give me faith, patience in suffering, and hope.  Amen.

love Joann