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God’s good > my good
Rod ShimabukuroAnd he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. Romans 8:27-29
The focal point for me in chapter 8 is not only the work of the Spirit, but His Person. Who God is in Spirit is our life source.
I’m seeing the point of the ever popular Ro 8:28 more than “what God does for me” because I love Him and am called according to His purpose. I’m seeing that Ro 8:28 in light of who the Spirit is as Intercessor (v27) in accordance to the will of God. Ro 8:28 is also about the character of His foreknowledge (v 29), who conforms us into the image of Jesus! This is another beautiful picture of the relationship of the Godhead! The Spirit praying according to the Father’s will who is conforming HIs children into Jesus image.
Of course I think He works everything together for good. But definitely not just for “my good.” What I want or define as “good” is many times NOT God’s definition or direction of “good.” But his I know - God’s desire and definition includes conformity into His image - for His good. So I’m thinking, If I’m truly called according to His purpose - I will forsake mine.
Ouch...!! Forsaking my definition of good and my purposes is the application. I do need to constantly check my heart and place what I feel is good before the Spirit in prayer. He is praying for me - so as I connect with the Spirit in prayer, I want to submit my thoughts in all areas of life before Him. These thoughts include decisions involving finances, family issues and home stewardship, to ministry and leadership involvement.
It’s simple - submit to the Spirit. God’s good is Greater than > my good.
Dear Spirit of God.
I surrender to You again. Thank You for being Always Accepting of me no matter the amount or types of mess ups. I feel so loved by Y’all! Thank you. It’s not in my heart to take advantage of Your love and grace - I just know that I know - that I am being transformed by You and conformed into Jesus image because of the purposes of God! Thank you ALL!
