One of my very first jobs was as a bank teller, where I learned to spot the counterfeit by studying the genuine. That lesson has proven invaluable to me as a believer.

            Satan never tires of trying to deceive the human need for relationship with God by offering us cheap counterfeits, whether through false religions, chemical addictions, unhealthy relationships, or success and power. The only way to recognize and avoid such entrapments is by having intimate knowledge and relationship with the genuine.

            I was reminded of this fact a few days ago when talking with a young woman who considers herself religious and may even call herself a Christian but who reflects no real relationship with Christ in her life. We were discussing some recent events that had complicated her existence and caused her a lot of heartache. In an obvious effort to put on a positive front, she declared, “But it’s all good.”

            Ever hear that comment? It’s quite popular these days, and I believe it is an attempt to hijack one of the most commonly used verses in the Bible while discounting the Author of that verse. Romans 8:28 declares, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” God’s Word tells us that ALL things work together for good, but only “to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Furthermore, Jesus said in Matthew 19:17 that no one is good except God. Only God in us is good; apart from His presence, we have no goodness. Therefore, “it’s all good” is a meaningless and untrue statement. Yet it sounds encouraging, doesn’t it? It’s the world’s way of saying, “I’m going through tough times, but I’ll be fine; it’ll all work out for the good.”

            Really? I don’t think so. Unless the things we’re going through are part of God’s plan for our lives because we love Him and are called for His purpose, “it’s all good” are just empty words. They mean nothing and will produce nothing. Faith in words is foolishness. Faith in God’s Word carries us through to victory.

            The next time you’re tempted to fall into the trap of the counterfeit, stop a moment and reflect on the genuine. Modern-day jargon and popular phrases mean nothing, but God’s Word stands ready to hold you firm until the end.