Trusting God Through Life’s Challenges

We love the promise in Romans 8:28:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

It’s a verse we cling to when life gets tough. But let’s be honest—there are days when it’s hard to believe it.

What about when the diagnosis comes back positive?

What about when the relationship falls apart?

What about when the job doesn’t work out, or the dream dies?

Is God really working all things for good—even this?

1. What Romans 8:28 Does (and Doesn’t) Say

Romans 8:28 is not saying that everything in life is good. Pain, loss, betrayal, heartbreak—these are real, and they hurt. This verse doesn’t minimize suffering. It promises that in the hands of God, nothing is wasted.

The key words are “all things” and “work together.” God is not only present in the good moments—He is actively at work in the worst ones too, weaving them into a bigger, redemptive story that we may not see yet.

2. God’s Good Isn’t Always Comfortable

We often confuse God’s good with our comfort. But God’s definition of good is far deeper—it’s about shaping us to be more like Christ (Romans 8:29). That kind of transformation sometimes comes through struggle, waiting, and things we wouldn’t choose on our own.

Joseph was sold into slavery, betrayed, and imprisoned for years. But looking back, he told his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). God didn’t cause the evil, but He used it to save lives and fulfill His purpose.

He can do the same in your story.

3. Trusting God in the Middle of the Mess

It’s one thing to trust God when life makes sense. But real faith is forged in the fire—when the outcomes are uncertain, and we choose to believe anyway.

Trust isn’t about understanding all the details. It’s about believing in the One who holds them. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us:

“‘My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord…”

God sees the full picture. You’re only seeing the puzzle piece in front of you.

4. Hope That Holds

Romans 8 is a chapter drenched in hope. Just a few verses before verse 28, Paul says, “The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed…” (v.18).

We can hold on because God is not done. He’s still writing. Even when we don’t see the outcome yet, we can trust His heart. He has a history of turning graves into gardens, crosses into crowns, and brokenness into beauty.

5. Your Story Isn’t Over

If you’re in a season of pain, doubt, or confusion, don’t lose heart. The same God who raised Jesus from the dead is still working in your life—even in the unseen.

You may not understand everything now. But Romans 8:28 assures us that God is not absent. He’s active. And He’s faithful to finish what He started.

Final Thought:

No matter what you’re walking through, remember this: God is working. Not just in some things. In all things. For your good. For His glory. You may not see it yet, but one day you will.

Until then—trust the process, and trust the One holding it all together.