“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
My baby hates diaper changes and baths. When we set about to accomplish either of those tasks, he takes the opportunity to show off just how strong his little lungs are. He has yet to learn and believe that something so uncomfortable can be good for him.
But in truth, these diaper changes and baths, while they may feel cruel to him, are actually one of the ways his daddy and I show him that we love him and care for him. We know what he will eventually learn: that these things may feel uncomfortable in the moment, but are ultimately for his good as they keep him clean and healthy.
As I changed his diaper the other day, I thought about how I respond in a similar way to some of the things God brings into my life. I fuss and complain about things that feel hard to uncomfortable. But God, in His sovereignty and goodness, has ordained all things in my life for my good and His glory. Even when I can’t see how something is good or how it is going to work out, He knows and is doing what is best for me.
