Worldly Trouble

My Pastor had another great message yesterday. I have learned a lot during this series that he did. In John chapter 16, Jesus was talking to His disciples about life. In verse 20 He tells them that grief will turn to joy. Verse 33 is the one I have a picture of. Jesus warned us that we WILL have trouble in this world. However, going through difficult things, for a Christ follower, can be done so with peace and joy.

In Romans 8: 28-30 says this, "28 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. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified."

God works all things for GOOD! When something bad happens, why do we always blame God? Here is the kicker though, following God does not give us a "get out of trouble free" card. We live in a sinful fallen world. Things happen. 

Predestined means that God has a set plan & order that is fixed. God has fixed it so when we experience suffering, it will be used to conform us into the likeness of Jesus. When the negative comes, we can let it conform us, and reflect Jesus. This is not about conforming to rules. It's about allowing those negative circumstances to change us. 

God calls in order for us to go somewhere. Justified is to perform justice. Glorified is in honor or recognition of . Therefore, God wants us to go somewhere show justice and honor Him. 

Allowing God to work in your life is not just for you. It is so you can help others.