up for a challenge?

I think I mentioned that the Beloved Beauties, my Bible Study group, is discussing "Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World."  Last night, we had some meaty discussion on God's plan for our lives.  For those of you who have read the book, we were discussing Chapter 8:  Lessons from Lazarus.  John 11 tells us that Lazarus fell ill and his sisters, Martha and Mary sent for Jesus to heal him.  Jesus loved Lazarus.  But Jesus did not heal immediately.  He waited.  


You see, the fundamental truth is that God always has a plan.  It may seldom follow the logic of our human minds.  It actually may seem to be totally against everything we believe about Him.  But He always has a plan...nothing takes Him by surprise.  His purposes will prevail.  He is not only concerned with my individual needs, but the needs of His entire creation.  


Joanna Weaver writes, "God's will does not always proceed a straight line.  That means that I will not always see a clear connection between point A and point B.  I won't always see the pattern in what happens to me.  I won't always understand the plan.  One reason for this is that God is weaving together a greater glory than just my own."

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."  ~Romans 8:28

Notice that He does not promise that everything is good...but He does promise that He will work everything together for good.  


When we are on the other side of the storm, we can glimpse in the rear view mirror and see the good.  Sometimes it's immediately....sometimes it's miles down the road...but rest assured, God's plan for you is good.  He is writing a beautiful Romans 8:28 story for your life.


I challenged the girls last night to ponder their Romans 8:28 story.   I'm pondering mine...and when I have the words, I will share it here.  If you are up for a challenge, I encourage you to ponder your Romans 8:28 story.  And if you want to take the challenge a step further, I encourage you to share your story with me.  I'd love to rejoice with you!