Bible Verse

Romans 8:28

Paul is writing to the church in Rome, explaining the work of the Holy Spirit and the security believers have in Christ despite present sufferings.

"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."

— Romans 8:28 (NIV)

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Other Translations

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

— ESV

"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."

— KJV

"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them."

— NLT

Understanding the Context

Book Context

Romans 8 is one of the most encouraging chapters in Scripture, discussing life in the Spirit, adoption as children of God, and the certainty of God's love. This verse comes in a section about future glory that outweighs present suffering.

Historical Background

Written around 57 AD, Paul addresses both Jewish and Gentile Christians in Rome, a church he hadn't yet visited. The early church faced persecution, so this promise of God's sovereign good was deeply needed.

Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

"And we know"

This is certain knowledge, not wishful thinking. Paul bases this on God's character and promises, not circumstances. It's an objective truth believers can confidently hold.

"that in all things God works for the good"

'All things' means everything—not just good things, but trials, suffering, and even our failures. God sovereignly orchestrates circumstances for ultimate good. This doesn't mean all things are good, but that God uses them for good.

"of those who love him"

This promise is specific to believers—those in relationship with God. 'Love' here isn't just emotion but covenant loyalty and devotion to God.

"who have been called according to his purpose"

God initiates relationship with us through His call. 'Purpose' (Greek: prothesis) means predetermined plan. God has a specific, eternal purpose for those He calls, and everything serves that purpose.

Key Themes

God's sovereigntyProvidencePurpose in sufferingDivine loveGod's calling

Applying This Verse to Your Life

  1. 1

    Trust that God is working even when circumstances seem chaotic or painful.

  2. 2

    Look for how God might be using current difficulties to shape you for His purposes.

  3. 3

    Rest in the security that nothing happens outside of God's sovereign control and loving care.

  4. 4

    Cultivate a love for God that trusts His goodness even when you can't see the outcome.

  5. 5

    Encourage others going through trials by reminding them of God's purposeful work.

Questions for Reflection

  • What difficult situation are you facing where you need to trust God's sovereign goodness?
  • Can you identify ways God has worked past trials together for your good?
  • How does knowing God has a purpose for you change your perspective on current struggles?
  • Are you living as someone who is 'called according to his purpose'?

Related Scripture

Jeremiah 29:11

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you."

Genesis 50:20

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done."

Proverbs 19:21

"Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails."

Ephesians 1:11

"In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything."

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