Romans 8:28

Oh today was a wonderful day. Church, family, and relaxing. What a great day. Despite the heat, and despite the clouds, God allowed for us to have a great time among family and reconnect with each other.

Today's sermon was great! It was basically exactly what I wanted to talk about last night, but couldn't find the words to express myself.

Why do bad things happen to good people?

My pastor's sermon was taken from Romans 8:28, which is below if you are unfamiliar with it.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to their purpose." (NIV)

The verse itself is comforting, though, my pastor noted that it can often be misinterpreted, misunderstood. A common belief, and one I realized I held today, is that sometimes bad things happen because God is testing you. They are done because God wants to build you up, make you stronger, make you lean on Him in the tough times.

But really, what kind of loving, compassionate, faithful, comforting Father would do that to His children?

Not GOD.

No, my pastor explained, we live in a world that is, thankfully, governed by the laws of nature. Gravity, one of his examples, is one of those many laws that are so often taken for granted. Sometimes, bad things just happen. Many times, they are the result of our own actions, our own mistakes.

He also brought emphasis to the fact that this verse says "...those who love God...," not just those who believe in God, quoting a well-known verse that basically says that even the demons believe in God. God works for those who love Him.

Oftentimes, it is the way we respond to these bad things that just happen that makes the distinction between those who just believe in God, and those who love him.

Definitely something I reflected upon today. Great start to this wonderful day!

P.S. Here is a link to a song that I have become obsessed with.

You Love Me Anyway, Sidewalk Prophets

prayers and praise

• For our pastors and leaders in church, that they will continue to lead, challenge and help us to grow in our faith, in our personal, loving relationship with Jesus Christ. Praise that they have answered God's call to do so.
• Prayers for all the family, friends, and friends of friends who find themselves in the hospital or in some way ill, that God will place His healing hand on them, on their situation. Prayers also that they will remember Him in this tough time.
• Prayers again for all those who have to work outside in this summer heat!
• Prayers for all those who might be lukewarm, that God might create in them a strong desire for Christ, a realization of what's missing.