All things work together for good!

Ever since I became a Christian I have had a limited understanding of Rom 10:28:

We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose. (Amplified)

It is usual to assume that this verse just applies to Christians who are facing opposition or are going through some kind of affliction. However, if we believe that we are made perfect (Hebr 10:14) and that Christ lives as us (Col 1:27) this verse obviously has a wider application.

Everything we are and everything we do are manifestations of God in this world, which means God can use everything to further His will among us. A simple illustration might illuminate my point: Assume I reject someone, either unwittingly or purposely. At first glance this might seem as evil. However, since all my works in Him are truth (John 3:21) this is an opportunity for God to perfect His work in this person, either leading him another step to the end of himself which is the point where that person will redirect his glance towards God, or this can be an opportunity for God to come forth as the only person who is perfect in every sense, and who never rejects anyone. In other words this can lead a person into greater freedom and a more profound experience of God’s love.

From a temporal perspective I might seem imperfect, but that is not God’s perspective. He says I am made perfect. I hold that as a truth which has the power to make me rest from my own works. When I do something which from an earthly perspective might seem as evil or stupid I trust God to work His good plan in both me and the person or group who is affected by my doings. From an eternal perspective everything we do will further His gracious plan in our lives.

A profound understanding of this verse and its implications, something which only the Spirit can disclose, have the power to imbue complete self-acceptance into a person’s life. Furthermore, this might lead us to an understanding that in every aspect of life God is in control and that He works in every circumstance which you and I face, both those we regard as good and those we regard as evil. As we grow in maturity our aptitude to discern spiritual matters will increase. We are not longer colored with our prior understanding of things which originate from feeding from the tree of good and evil. The tree of life, which is Christ, will be the position from where we evaluate life.

This also sets us free from judging others, whether they are Christians or not, whether they preach grace or not, whether they have a profound understanding of union or not, because God is all in all.

One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. (Eph 4:6, KJV)