As we look around at our world today, it is easy to become discouraged. Political division, violence, hatred, uncertainty, and lawlessness seem to be increasing everywhere. Many people are filled with worry and anxiety, wondering what the future holds.

But I have chosen a different focus. More than fifty years ago, I discovered a promise that has given me peace and confidence throughout life. It was found in Romans 8:28:

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.

The translation I was reading at the time read “to those who are partners in His plans for them.” God is able to work all things together for good, but He is looking for people who are willing to partner with Him in His plans.

What an amazing partnership!

Imagine working with Someone who is loving, kind, infinitely wise, humble, and completely committed to your growth and development. He does not do everything for us, but patiently teaches, guides, and develops us into mature and effective workers.

If we trust Him, follow His instructions, and search for truth as for hidden treasure, we have nothing to fear. In fact, the future is beyond anything we can imagine. Personally, I am excited to begin experiencing that future now.

And why would we want to limit such a partnership? His wisdom extends to every area of life—our spiritual life, our physical health, our habits, our family relationships, our work, our finances, our recreation, and our service to others. There is no part of life that He cannot improve if we are willing to invite Him in.

Even in matters of health, God has much to say. The Creator who designed our bodies also gave instructions for their care. Beginning with His original diet in Eden and continuing through the practical principles found throughout Scripture, He has provided a wealth of treasures for those willing to search.

Are we willing to trust the Creator’s instructions for caring for His creation? After all, who knows better how to maintain and enjoy the human body than the One who designed it?

Many people fear that God’s counsel will deprive them of pleasure or freedom, but the opposite is true. His instructions are expressions of love, intended to bring greater health, clearer minds, more abundant energy, and a deeper appreciation of life itself. Like all of God’s counsel, His health principles are not burdens to endure, but treasures to discover.

As we discover the beauty of this relationship, we naturally desire His blessing in every area. Another promise has brought me tremendous comfort:

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come … shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39).

Nothing can separate us from His love. This relationship is not temporary—it is preparation for eternity. Today is practice time for our forever life with Him and with those we love, when sin, suffering, disease, and death will be no more.

As we walk with God, we soon discover that each instruction He gives touches us differently. Some things come easily, others challenge us. Sometimes His counsel even corrects us. Yet every instruction comes from a loving Father who knows our needs far better than we know them ourselves.

Think about some of the areas in which God offers counsel:

  • Health and lifestyle
  • Diet and habits
  • Family and relationships
  • Business and finances
  • Recreation and entertainment
  • Music and reading
  • Service and ministry
  • Spiritual growth and worship

How do we respond when God’s wisdom touches one of these areas? Do we welcome His guidance, or do we prefer to make our own decisions? Sometimes we avoid searching because we suspect we already know what He might ask of us, and we would rather not face the choice.

But this is exactly the point—life works best in partnership with God. Going it alone may seem easier, but it never brings the peace, joy, and confidence that comes from trusting His perfect wisdom.

God’s instructions are not burdens designed to rob us of happiness. They are treasures meant to enrich our lives. They are expressions of His love.

These treasures are found in His Word. The Bible reveals His character and His will. Books by Ellen G. White such as Steps to Christ and The Desire of Ages help us know Him more personally. The Ministry of Healing, Education, Counsels on Diet and Foods, and the Testimonies for the Church contain practical instruction for daily living.

The treasure is there. Search for it. Dig deeply. Ask questions. Learn all you can about this wonderful Partner. The rewards are beyond measure.

We can live in fear, or we can live in joyful confidence.

The choice is ours.

—Rick Mautz is the Rocky Mountain Conference Wellness Support director. Photo by DS stories of Pexels.