His Purpose Is Perfect

There are moments in life when even Christians who profess both faith and fortitude face doubts and uncertainty about their present life and the future. We find comfort in the well-known words of the apostle Paul, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose,” Romans 8:28 (NKJV). Three things immediately strike us from this passage. 

First, the biblical writer emphatically reminds us that we know that things work together for good in our lives! Second, the Lord has a purpose, and we must recognize and accept the fact that we are governed by that divine purpose. Third, the apostle Paul speaks here of what we might refer to as “providential events” in our lives. Things such as sickness, death, loss of employment, the fracture of a meaningful relationship, even divisions within the body of Christ (church) can ultimately be seen to reveal that wonderful purpose of the Almighty working for the good (salvation) of those who fear His Name and respect His will. 

When those experiences that are afflictive in nature are understood within the framework of faith, patience and humility, then the Christian is empowered from above to press on and march forward in the confidence of knowing that God is completely in control of her/his life and that come what may, that divine purpose will work for her/his ultimate good. 

The chastisement of an all-loving, all-benevolent heavenly Father who sees all, knows all and loves beyond measure should be readily received by His children who so often live by sight instead of faith. When we thus live, we position ourselves to carry out the divine purpose of God in our individual lives, which enables us to be a blessing to our family, our church and our community at large. 

What society so desperately seeks and needs today are Christians who are the salt of the earth in a tasteless world and light that illuminates in the midst of a world of darkness and corruption. The world truly needs a clear picture of God’s redemptive grace. As a church, we have been placed in this world for one purpose and one purpose only, to accurately portray the character of God. When we live out God’s purpose in both our individual and corporate lives, the joy of heaven shines through and people are drawn to a loving and compassionate Savior. 

By Carlos J. Craig, President