ROMANS 8:28 – HURTFUL PLATITUDE OR HOPEFUL COMFORT?
You’ve just received some devastating news, unlike any you’ve ever received before. It feels as if you’ve been struck a massive blow, and you’re reeling with pain and confusion. Life, as you’ve known it, will never be the same again. While you are in the depths of your anguish, a well-meaning acquaintance sends a text, seeking to comfort you in whatever way he or she can. They quote the following verse – We know that all things work together for good to them that love God… (Romans 8:28) As you read the words, what is your reaction? Are they like a soothing balm to a wound? Or do they sting worse than salt? This verse is deemed by many as one of the worst you could quote to people who are suffering. In fact, I even came across an online article which instructs the readers not to use this verse in these situations. If you conducted a survey and asked which verse people liked having quoted to them in times of difficulty, I have a feeling that this one might be at the bottom of the list.