One believer lamented it should be comfort, and not good: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28) People want this verse according to their convenience and comfort. All things work together for my popularity, accumulating wealth, happiness, health, success, peace, progress, promotion… What comfort could be human interpretation? What is good could be defined only by God.
Priority of God: God works in a believer’s life for good, and not comfort. Comfort is not the highest goal or priority, but it is good. It is not a ‘feel-good factor,’ but good. Something feels good and feels comfortable, could be a death trap. It is good to remember how a frog in the kettle boiled to death, as it began to feel comfortable with the rising temperature of the water.
Comfort sacrificed: God sometimes sacrifices comfort to provide good. The mother eagle will dismantle the nest that is comfortable to teach the eaglets to fly. God removes the comforts of a believer to walk in faith and soar like eagles. A goldsmith is concerned about the refined gold that will emerge from the crucible, hence applying heat for the refining process.
God’s purpose: All things are orchestrated by God to fulfil His will or purpose in the lives of believers, as well as for His Kingdom. God does not rejoice in the pain and suffering of His people. He has to shape, mature, and fit them for His eternal purpose. Pruning is essential for fruitfulness. A sculptor has to chisel off the unwanted parts of the stone to create a beautiful statue. Discomfort helps a believer to look towards God to know His purpose. Hannah’s lack of children nudged her to perceive God’s plan and consecrate the boy, Samuel, yet to be born to serve him. Samuel plays a significant role in the history of Israel. Trusting God in the midst of pain, and diligently awaiting the result in hope, is a challenge of faith.
Do I desire God’s Good for my life?