I heard someone say the other day that when God takes something such as a loved one, that He always gives something better in its place. Then the person went on to quote Romans 8:28 as proof that what she said was true.

     Rom 8:28   And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God to them who are the called according to his purpose (emphasis mine).
 
     I have checked all of the major translations of that verse, and I have not seen one yet that exchanged better for good.

     Don’t get me wrong. I know from personal experience that God definitely works seeming tragedy into GOOD  for us and for all concerned.

     Most of you know that my husband and I have buried three of our four sons. Would I say that God allowed my children to die but gave me something BETTER?  NO, ABSOLUTELY NOT. But did God work their deaths for GOOD?  YES, ABSOLUTELY!!! Actually, as I look over the past thirty/forty-eight years, I believe God used me to bring comfort and compassion to others because He allowed me to appear on the platform and speak to probably many thousands of people, some were grieving and some simply needed to hear God speak to them in a very personal way. I will say it again…GOD USED ME!!!And He allowed me to write seven books when I never dreamed I could even begin to write one, let alone seven! Even after being in continuous print for 24 years, I still receive two to three notes per week telling me how God continues to use and bless grieving people through Roses In December. I can definitely say that God has worked GOOD into my life, but BETTER??? I don’t think so.

     I know God makes no mistakes and He will never do anything to cause me harm.

     Jer 29:11  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

      I also have learned to take God’s Word literally, but we also must scrutinize our interpretations of His Word.

     Wouldn’t it be nice if we could always count on God giving us something BETTER when He allowed something GOOD to be taken away? Let’s read that verse again,

     Rom 8:28   And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God to them who are the called according to his purpose (emphasis mine).

Marilyn Willett Heavilin Is a wife and mother; author & international conference speaker

Author of
Roses In December,
December’s Song
Becoming A Woman of Honor,
Profound Common Sense
When Your Dreams Die,
Grief Is A Family Affair,
I’m Listening, Lord