Predestined to be like Jesus

"We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. And those whom he predistined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified" (Romans 8:28-30 NRSV).

Paul can be challenging to understand sometimes, but I like reading his writings (perhaps because he and I share a love of using more words than are sometimes necessary(?)). Paul writes from the viewpoint that what God knows and does in eternity appears to be a prior action - even though it is going on now - and will actually take place in the future.

In other words, while we will be called . . . justified . . . glorified at the end of time, it has already occured in eternity! God is so massive and His love so all-encompassing that neither He nor His love can be contained in time and space.

So if that is the case, why do I doubt His wisdom? Why do I struggle with situations in my life? How can I not be assured that God is in control? Always has been. Always will be. Since I believe in the certain future glory that awaits me in heaven, I have no need to worry about the past or the present. My future is assured! "What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us?" (Romans 8:31 NRSV)

God is conforming us to the image and likeness of Christ so we can share in the glory of Christ. So, Paul considers the sufferings of the present not even worth complaining about because they couldn't possibly compare to the future glory that will be revealed to us as they were to Christ. That's so reassuring. And important to remember. Our future is certain! God waits for us with anticipation and longing--just as we wait for Him. That's called HOPE.

Blessings on your journey,
Mary