Soul Survivors - pt 2

Romans 8:28-39
So we're Soul Survivors if we are living for Christ. Good. And we learned last week what all that entails: in the face of problems, times of need, harassment, desperation, shame, fear, and death. So what about the good?

Romans 8:28 says "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." Let me break it down taking key words in this verse and expounding.

KNOW - we are confident, sure, fully aware

ALL THINGS - every detail and event, tragedy, victory, difficulty, and celebration, and not just in our life but throughout history

GOD WORKS - not us; It's not up to us and our strength or capabilities. God is in control. Another version says 'work together.' This is from the Greek word 'sunergeo' from which we get synergy. Simply put: God works two or more elements together to make something brand new that couldn't be produced in the individuals alone, something better.

GOOD - this is an eternal kingdom type of good, not ice cream and cake kind of good. A bigger picture of good is needed. Jesus says in response to the compliment of "good teacher" that only His dad is good. Good, in this sense is heavenly and eternal. In essence, the good that comes about is our own deeper relationship with God.

THOSE WHO LOVE HIM - this is the qualifier. This promise isn't for everyone - only those who reciprocate God's love and even further more who respond to the call.

WHO ARE CALLED - God initiates, reaches out, desires. Not everyone who is called responds accordingly.

So what do we do with this? Ask 5 questions from this verse and allow the Spirit to lead you in truth. When you feel called or prompted by God's Spirit:
   Do you love God? Start with the basic. Enter a relationship.
   Are you eternal kingdom minded? 'I' am NOT the most important thing in this world. I must be others' minded.
   Are you trying to do it on your own? Recognize God is the one who creates, sustains, and transforms, not us on our own strength.
   What certain things or experiences do you need to give to God? Let go of specific events in order to see bigger picture of what God is doing.
   Are you confident/Do you trust in the 'good' God is doing? The good is making you like Jesus.

Let's be soul survivors TODAY!