Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

King James Version

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

New International Version

Faith & Trust

The meaning behind Romans 8:28

Romans 8:28 is a popular and often quoted verse that speaks to God’s sovereignty and His loving plan for those who trust in Him. In the broader context of Romans chapter 8, the apostle Paul is offering encouragement to believers, reminding them that despite the suffering and difficulties they face in this fallen world, God is still in control.

This verse assures that God can take even the negative circumstances in the lives of those who love Him and use them for good and His glory. It does not necessarily mean that all things will be good, but that God can work through both blessings and trials to ultimately achieve His purposes. The “good” referred to is not necessarily earthly comfort or success, but conformity to Christ and bringing glory to God.

An important aspect of this verse is that it applies only to those who are called according to God’s purpose. In other words, those who love God and have responded in faith to His offer of salvation in Jesus Christ. Only those who have a relationship with God through Christ have this assurance that He is working out all things for their ultimate good.

Overall, Romans 8:28 offers great comfort and hope to believers. No matter what happens in life, they can cling to the promise that God loves them and can powerfully use all circumstances to further His plan for their lives. This verse reminds that God’s purposes and perspective are higher than ours, and He can accomplish great things even through pain and suffering. For the believer, the supreme “good” is to become more like Christ and bring glory to God, which He can accomplish regardless of circumstances.