Most know, the classic words of Romans 8:28 - God works all things together for good for those who love the Lord. The Amplified Bible sharpens these words even further: “We are assured…that [God as [our] partner… (fits)…all things…together…into a plan] for good…for those who…are (willing to see)… [His] design and purpose.” (Romans 8:28, The Amplified Bible).
But how? Things can get pretty painful, horrific...tragic.
As the story goes, a pastor returned to his pulpit just ten days after his son committed suicide. Coincidentally the text for that Sunday was Romans 8:28. Not surprisingly the pastor struggled to read the text. And so he just fessed-up to his congregation: “This is difficult. But the miracle of the shipyard helps. Think about it” – the pastor continued. “Most parts of ocean-going vessels are made of steel. Why take any one part: a steel plate, a huge rudder -- and throw it into the ocean and it sinks. Steel doesn't float! But take any part and let the shipbuilder to fit it together -- and those same parts become a steel ship – that floats and goes somewhere. So it is with my son’s death. Taken by itself – it’s heavy and senseless. Frankly -- it sinks! But if I allow the master shipbuilding, God Almighty, to fit it together -- perhaps I will float and go somewhere, some day."
Helpful. Taking a classic text and affirming it -- but in a way that begins to make sense, when we -- or someone we love -- experience unspeakable, horric pain.
Thanks for sharing these thoughts. Helpful in light of the Chardon High School shooting and the terrible tornadoes last week.
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