Romans 8:29
29 because those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.
A Few Notes to Start
Verse 28 is right before this - “And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose,”
It is usually read as a complete sentence, but here, it is left off in the middle.
Verse 29 is the continuation. It backs up verse 28 that is so popularly quoted!
So, what does verse 29 tell us?
God’s purpose is for us to be conformed into Christ’s image as brothers and sisters of Jesus.
I will fully admit that I have quoted verse 28 without realizing what verse 29 said. I believe, and have even written about the fact that God continually and will always work all things together for our (those who love Him) good and His glory. The thing is, I think that we can sometimes get a bit selfish there, thinking that we know His purpose [read: outcome, plan, strategy, meaning] in x, y, z. When ultimately God’s purpose was to create us in His image and conform us into the image of Christ as we walk through this ilife.
So then, is it less about the “cool” or recognizable things that we can do for God and more (well really ALL) about humbly allowing Him to transform us into His image?
Could it be that we over complicate and superimpose our plans into the situation when all He wanted was to be close with us?
Through prayer, study, submission, surrender, and a willing and yielded heart, God does just that.
This is where the day - to - day becomes the perfect place for Him to shine through.
Where we can do it right because He is changing us and molding us.
When we are doing it right by His mighty power through us, we can love our neighbor more intentionally, embrace the season we are in fully, and carry out our personal, daily responsibilities according to His will.
Final Thoughts on Romans 8:29
Isn’t it amazing that we are not only saved by Jesus, but that we are created as His brothers and sisters?! It is crazy to me but it is true.
So WHY do all things work together for our good and His purpose? Because He designed it to be that way and God can not and will not go against His word.
Lord, thank You for reminding me of your GOODNESS today. It is easy to get caught up in so many prayer requests and unknowns, but resting on the certainty of who you are puts it all into perspective. Help us to lean into what you are doing in our lives and allow you to mold and shape us into the image of your Son. In Jesus name, Amen.
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