Scripture
Romans 8:28
28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
My dislike for knots in shoestrings is enormous! Knots stink! They decrease the length of the shoestring, and attempting to unravel the knot can be challenging based upon how tightly connecting the knot is formed, especially if you are an older person (like me J) and your fingers are not as nimble.
Although I dislike knots in shoestrings or ties, knots teach us more about God’s plan and power than we realize. It is in Romans 8:28 where Paul shares, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
In this one verse, we can understand that all of life is connected. Our exceptional experiences, along with our horrible experiences, find themselves tied together to form the knot we call our lives. Our problems can lead us to a deeper relationship with Christ. Our obstacles are opportunities to experience the omnipotence of God. During this ongoing and tiring Covid season – we are all feeling the impact. In the Bible, we are never told that our lives will be a tiptoe through the tulips, or a walk observing willows, but we are repeatedly assured that God travels with us.
We must remain convinced that the God of all is causing all things to be knotted together for our good as we trust in God. We must have faith in our loving God to deliver us all from this virus. May we trust God who supervises all, will knit all of our lives in a purposeful manner.
For the Kiddos:
Enter & Wonder:
Some people believe that when you come to know Jesus you are destined for a life of happiness. Is that true? Why, or why not?
Is there anyplace in the Bible where you see God using difficulty in a person’s life to bring about great good? (ie: Joseph, Moses, Abraham, Paul, etc.)
Hear:
Read the Bible Passages. (Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV)) For younger children, a picture Bible may be used.
Bless:
Afirm what was discussed about the story.
Think back over the course of your family history and your personal history. When, where, and how were difficulties used to bring about something good? Where was God working in your life? Talk about it with your family.
Praise God, Give thanks, Pray for others, confess sins, Praise God!
Example:
You are the God that made the planets, moon, sun and stars! May we trust you even when we do not understand your methods because you are tying everything together for good. Help me to be useful in your kingdom. In Jesus Name, Amen!