"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. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son..." Rom. 8:28, 29 (NIV)

We know that in all things God is working for our good. That does not mean we will be spared from heartache or trouble. It does not mean we cannot be touched by the evil of this world. What it does mean is that we have the assurance that no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in, no matter how difficult the situation, no matter how painful our lot, God is there. God is there at the beginning, and He is there at the end, and He is there at every point in between. For God is at work in our lives. What is that work? It is the work of conforming us, changing us into the very image or likeness of His Son. This is not an easy work, it is not a painless work, but it is a good work. God is at work in your life, making you like Jesus Christ. Paul is not saying that the tragedies and heartaches of life will necessarily produce a better set of circumstances, they may, but sometimes they will not. Come what may, God is committed to making us like His Son. Whatever it takes to make you more like Jesus is good. What Paul is trying to get across to us is that we need a long term perspective on our lives. We need to remember that the pain will be worth it in the end, when we look like our Savior, Jesus Christ. Then all the pain, all the heartache, all the trials in our lives will come into perspective and they will be worth it all, for when we awaken in His likeness it will be very good.

Help us to put into perspective life’s trials, Lord. Thank You for the promise that they are working for good in my life. Help me to focus on what they are accomplishing and not on the pain and heartache. Make me beautiful in Your sight, O Lord, that I might become more like Your Son. Amen