What is the “good” of Romans 8:28

From the desk of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible Teacher & Expositor. In Romans 8:28, the “good” refers to the ultimate, eternal good that God orchestrates for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. It encompasses their spiritual growth and conformity to the image of Christ, not earthly happiness or comfort. The only accurate understanding of what the “good” is can only be found by its context (surrounding verses). In other words, To understand “good” in Romans 8:28, it's crucial to read the surrounding verses (Romans 8:18-30) which discuss the participation of Christians in the everyday suffering experienced by all of creation. We all groan together as a woman in labor while we wait for God to reveal His children. As His children, we are waiting for the Father to complete our adoption by redeeming our bodies so that we can be with Him! The verse emphasizes the active role of God in working all things together, not that all things are inherently good. The word “good” does not mean our idea of the best possible outcome on any given day. God’s good for us is to glorify us in eternity (Revelation 21:1–4).  

The comfort of the verse is that nothing in this life of waiting and suffering is wasted. It is all meaningful for those in Christ, even if that doesn’t diminish our pain in the moment. The “good” is not temporary relief or worldly success, but rather God’s ultimate plan for believers, which includes their spiritual transformation and glorification that serves His purpose for the universe. An important aspect of this “good” is being “conformed to the image of His Son” (Romans 8:29), meaning believers are growing to resemble Jesus in character and nature! Those who love God and are called according to His purpose are the recipients of this “good,” which is a reminder that God has a specific plan and purpose for each believer’s life. And, now you know! Be encouraged!