Article Fourteen
In all Things
“So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together for good, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose. For he knew all about us before we were born and he destined us from the beginning to share the likeness of his Son.” Romans 8:28 -29 (TPT)
What revelation did Paul receive as He faced the many trials of His life, from misunderstanding, to shipwreck, beating, and imprisonment? Could it be that as he realised his identity in Christ coupled with the divine plan God had for His life empowered him to stand amidst it all, firm in this belief?
As I meditated on this scripture, I began at the end of the verse, realising that I never needed to attain Christlikeness. The truth is, we were always destined to look like Christ from the beginning. It’s this truth that unwraps us from the death shrouds of guilt and shame. It unravels us from all the fears and lies that have had the audacity to taunt us into believing otherwise. Our true identity can crystallise within the depths of our hearts and minds as we surrender to this life defining truth! Our belief systems fall in line with this revelation and we sigh, resting contented in the sweetness of all that Christ won back for us.
Working our way back along this scripture, we see that our lives were and are to fulfil the divine purpose that He has designed for us. He knows all about us! Every detail, even the places that we are unconscious of or battle with. Nothing disqualifies us from the beautiful dreams and marvellous plans He has concerning us! We are His recreated people. This scripture is a positive reminder of our identity and purpose to come back to when we don’t look or feel like it in the natural!
Now we return to the very beginning of this verse. Paul is convinced, despite his hardships, that every detail of his life has been woven together for good! How can he make such a bold statement? Yet if he can, then surely we can step towards becoming convinced likewise. The mirror translation puts it this way: “Meanwhile we know that the love of God causes everything to mutually contribute to our advantage.” Our loving Father doesn’t leave us to fumble about in our own efforts to scramble out of our mess. He meets us in the centre of it, bringing about His divine purpose by weaving everything into His master plan.
I conclude with this pondering, that the very places we find ourselves in can be restored, redeemed and learnt from. Even when the circumstances are of our own making. He leads the way back and shows us the way forward by His spirit within us. This is true in every situation, every relationship, and hardship we find ourselves in. I can say with confidence “every detail of our lives is continually woven together for good,” not only because I have witnessed it in my own life but because it is the truth. So even when the natural speaks contrary to this we can stand on this truth shushing the liar and soothing our emotional responses!!
The good news is even in our weakest moments, this truth still prevails and we are empowered to rise up above all circumstances and trials reflecting Him. From this place, we lend hope for those around us as they witness the fruit of our trials become deliciously available for them.