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.

TO PONDER

My family recently enjoyed a camping trip with some old friends from Canberra. It has been quite a while since we had camped in a tent and it took all of us a night or two to remember what sleeping in a tent was like. It was noisy, as the canvas flapped around in the breeze; it was not as comfortable as the climate controlled bedrooms we have back at home; it was not as dark as our bedrooms in the house with their blinds and curtains. There was a lot to remember and get used to.

Yet in the midst of those camping 'inconveniences' we had a wonderful time, reconnecting with old friends, cooking over campfires, swimming with whales and dolphins, listening to frogs and kookaburras and just enjoying a slower pace of life for a few days.

Camping was hard but also full of joy. We all came home a bit sore and tired but also energised and renewed. Sometimes living in, and being called into God's purpose is not easy. Sometimes it can feel like a lot of hard work. And yet we can take joy and confidence from the promise that even in the midst of that, God is at work bringing about God for us and all those who put their trust in Him.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for all the gifts and joys of your creation. Tank you for calling me into your family and into your plans and purposes. Help me to confidently trust that wherever you lead me, you are at work planning good for all those who put their trust in you. Amen

Today's devotion written by Mathew von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle