“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.”
-Romans 8:28 (NIV)
It’s not from the world of sports, but it is what we’re all talking about today: the shootings at Fort Hood in Texas. There are so many questions to be answered, so many emotions to be addressed, so much pain to be endured. Our prayers are with the families of those killed and wounded today as they pick up the pieces and begin life under very new circumstances.
It’s a great reminder to us all today—that it can all change in a minute. We can plan and plan and plan for the life we want, but unforeseen circumstances will generally redirect those perfect scenarios. For those of us who have faith in Christ, we can ultimately have peace in all of life’s twists and turns knowing that our Father works out all things for the good of those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
Still, questions will arise out of tragedy. How does a mass shooting play into God’s perfect plan for anyone’s life? Again, we must trust Romans 8:28. Because of man’s free will, men are free to choose sin. It was not God’s will that this man open fire on his peers and fellow soldiers, but it is our faith to believe that God knew what he would choose and that He planned accordingly. While I believe it broke God’s heart that this man chose such an awful plan of action, God knew what would happen and has made a plan to bring ultimate blessing and healing to those affected.
It seems almost disrespectful to bring this story to an athletic analogy, but the principle does apply. No matter what happens in our lives, God has a plan for our good in anything and everything. Whether they are random accidents like injuries or whether they are the results of man’s sinfulness like in a gossiping, rumor-starting teammate, we can trust Him as our protector, provider, healer and Savior.
Today, no matter what you’re going through, rest assured in the sovereignty and faithfulness of God. Whether we can fully understand it or not, He does know what we’re going through and He has made a way for ultimate blessing if we trust Him. Let that be our mantra today: “Lord, I trust You. Please see me through.”
1. What have been some times of unforeseen change in your life? How were you able to see God through it in the end?
2. What are you going through today that is causing anxiety or pain in your life? Do you trust God to make a way and to bring ultimate blessings?
3. Do you know someone who needs to be encouraged in their faith today? How can you share that message with them through actions or words?
Jeremiah 29:11-14
Psalm 36:5
Proverbs 3:5-6
Proverbs 16:9