And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose… (Romans 8:28)
In 64 AD, Emperor Nero blamed the Great Fire of Rome on the Christians. He then, “punished them with refined cruelty,” as an eyewitness reported. Some were fed to wild dogs. Others, he lit as human torches in his garden.
Rather than recant, the stalwart Christians sang praises to God during their torture, and were promoted to the heavenly realms.
The Apostle Paul was among the targets of Nero’s persecution. When he wrote about all things working for good, it was after he’d been imprisoned, lashed, beaten with rods, shipwrecked, and stoned until presumed dead.
I am not a martyr or a Paul. My tribulation is only common. But I can have an uncommon faith in the face of common trials. By choosing to grip the hand of Jesus through minor hardships, my days become times of glorious overcoming.
This life is not a disposable failure to be tolerated until heaven. Rather, I am called according to God’s purpose. That purpose is to promote the kingdom of God, even while enduring trials. Grow the kingdom, find refuge in Jesus, and let him work everything for good.
Prayer: Sovereign King, work your purpose in me today.