Everything for Good

S - “The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.” Proverbs 16:4 ESV

O - This ancient saying affirms a dynamic on earth which God has given himself to relentlessly.  This reality combines his brilliance, nearness, power, and mercy so that all humans may have confidence in any and in every circumstance. It echoes through the prayer Jesus taught the twelve to pray and is evidenced in both the stories and statements of scripture.  The reality? Not only does God have a will on earth but he is purposeful in everything he causes AND in everything he allows. Not only so, but he himself is literally working everything caused and everything allowed for good! He's not just working every good thing but everything, even the bad and wicked things for good. 

A - This confidence for earth's residents does not come in the knowledge of a plan, promise or principle but in knowing and relying on a person. When anyone meets him and enters into a relationship with him they know how true this is. He's actually, unceasingly and completely amazing! Jesus comes to clarify the person and purposes of God (John 12:44-45: “And Jesus cried out and said, "Whoever believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me. And whoever sees me sees him who sent me.”). The result of knowing him and being with him and in him day by day leaves all followers with a conclusion voiced beautifully by a former religious zealot and terrorist, Saul of Tarsus: “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.” Romans 8:28

P - God who has a will on earth and not just in heaven,

Thank you for sending Jesus to clarify your person and purpose; for always being at work and for working all things. I can believe and live this out loud because of his person, knowing him not just about him … and he reveals you. Amazing!  So, I thank you for everything that has happened to me and in me to this very day. Not just every good thing but everything … even that which should have never been done to me or by me.  I fully admit you're working it all.  I welcome you and your will on earth like they do in heaven; completely and without reserve. Thank you for letting me (us) live and pray in Jesus and in his name.

I love you back,

Steve