Romans 8:28-29, "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. 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."

Think

The sole survivor of a shipwreck made it to the shores of a deserted island and prayed for God to rescue him, but help didn't come. Eventually, the man gathered materials and built a small hut for shelter. One day he returned from scavenging for food and found his hut on fire. Frustrated and angry, he yelled at God, "Why are you doing this to me?" The next morning he was awakened by rescuers. When he asked, "How did you find me?" They responded, "We saw your smoke signal." Within this quarantine, many of us feel stranded and frustrated. We wonder why God's not fixing our pandemic problems - and our feelings are legitimate. But, feelings aren't facts. Romans 8:28 unpacks God's promise that He's always at work in our lives - even when we can't see it or feel His presence. So, let's look at some key aspects of this significant promise: Certainty: "We know!" That's Godfidence! We know that God is always in control. Completeness: "That in all things..." In all things – not some or most – God is working for good, even amid a global pandemic! Cause: "God works for the good..." God always has our best interests in mind. There's purpose in our pain. Condition: "Of those who love Him..." When we have a relationship with God through Christ, we obey Him because we love Him. Culmination: "Called according to His purpose ... to be conformed to the image of His Son." God's always at work, shaping and perfecting us to reflect Jesus' character and carry out His purpose. Today, be confident that no matter what's happening, God never wastes a moment of your life. You may feel frustratingly stranded, but God is using your current situation as a "smoke signal" for great things to come!

Act

Voice your frustrations to God. Then review the five elements of today's reading above, from the perspective of each frustration. Then thank God for His promise, provision, plan, and purpose.

Pray

Dear Lord, You are bigger and greater than my current frustrations. I believe that You're working through all things to make me more like Jesus. Your ways are higher than my own and Your plans are perfect. Thank You for the promises and assurances of Your Word. Amen.