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 (ESV)
Recently my book club met, and we shared titles of books that shaped our philosophies of life while growing up. One woman remembered that her father had encouraged her to read The Red Pony, by John Steinbeck. My interest was piqued and while sitting there I checked Amazon, ordered the book and it was delivered the next day.
I noticed on the back cover that The Red Pony won the Nobel Prize in Literature! However, it was the synopsis that really got my attention. “Steinbeck draws on his memories of childhood in these stories about a boy who embodies both the rebellious spirit and the contradictory desire for acceptance of early adolescence.” It goes on, “Unlike most coming-of-age stories, the cycle does not end with a hero ‘matured’ by circumstances.” And then, the final line, “They are parts of the ongoing process of life, ‘resolving’ nothing.”
The phrase “resolving nothing” caused me to do some deeper thinking. Even though it is extremely difficult to resolve life’s dilemmas, Romans 8:28 does clearly say that God is working behind the scenes to produce good in all things—but with a clear condition. This promise is directed to all who “love God” and to those “who are called according to His purpose.”
Paul is teaching us here to guard against fatalism and resignation. He is instructing us to begin working on resolution of our dilemmas. Since our interests are never absent from the heart of God—never adrift from His loving and guiding hand—our part is to deal with significant issues and losses in life by searching for and finding the good He is working through them. This is the kind of good that fosters trust and offers peace—resolution available only to those who never give up searching for it.
Why is working toward resolution important? It helps us gain new perspective; it ensures our continued spiritual growth; it enables us to put valuable resources like time, energy, reputation, and motivation to their best possible use— “resolving” what God is doing in our lives—ultimately shaping us into His wise ambassadors!