For those who he foreknew he also predestined to be confirmed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those who he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Romans 8:29-32
Because God is Sovereign, He is not surprised by anything. God has a plan in everything. His plan is for His glory and for His people. The Scripture verses today are monumental in understanding God’s foreknowledge and sovereignty, showing that God is in control, and the ultimate example of God’s sovereign control is in His gift of salvation.
“For those who he foreknew he also predestined to be confirmed to the image of his Son.” God has known from the beginning of time who would be called His children. God opens your eyes to see your need for Him. He invites you, calls you by name, and He says, “You are Mine!” He saved you by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and you are a picture of His glory and His grace! These verses are such good news. God is in control.
Think about it:
1. If God is in control, each day is a gift from Him and when I see it as a gift, I grow in gratitude and thankfulness at what God has given me.
If I am in control, each day is a right and a privilege I think I deserve and with that perspective, I can only grow in pride and self-righteousness when things go my way, or have anger and bitterness when things don’t go as I planned.
2. If God is in control, there is hope in the midst of tragedy or suffering because there is the promise that God will work all things for good for those who love him. There is the promise of greater things to come.
If I am in control there can only be hopelessness in the midst of tragedy or suffering because I am reminded that I can do nothing to change my circumstances and I will always be looking back wanting to recapture the past with no hope of a brighter and better future.
3. If God is in control, tragedy is temporary in light of the promise of eternity.
If I am in control, tragedy is ultimate and final. It shows that I have failed, because I could not control all things.
The last verse, “If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” is incredibly powerful! You see, if God is sovereign, what do you have to fear? NOTHING! If God is in control, there is nothing that can come against His chosen children. The enemy does not control circumstances and situations. God does! He is our hope! What the enemy means for evil, God is using for good. In the midst of your struggle, God is using it for His glory and the good of you who love Him. We can live with tremendous hope in the midst of circumstances that appear hopeless. God is in control and if you love Him and trust Him, He is working for your good.
If you don’t know Him, you are invited to see how great His love and grace truly is. You can live a life of hope and the promise of greater things to come, if you will love Him and trust Him with your life. It’s easy. All you have to do is ask Him. Why not today?
Taken from a sermon by George Wright, Senior Pastor, Cedarcrest Church
