“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring about that many people should be kept alive , as they are today.” (Gen. 50:20)
It is at the end of Genesis we read these familiar words (Gen. 50:20). Most of us know the story well. Joseph’s brothers intended him harm/evil for they were jealous and unloving. But God… intended it…ALL of his hardship and affliction…for good. Good for Joseph and good for God’s people which ultimately brought glory to God as His plan of redemption went on. God’s plans are more than we can understand sometimes…at least all the details. It is GOOD that God is in the details…for He always does what is Right and Good!
As many of you know I like the word “intent”, because the God of the Bible is a God of intention even in conflict, struggle, fear or affliction…God always has a purpose…and that purpose is GOOD for His own…even if we don’t see it at the time. Paul tells us why that is. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.” (Rom. 8:28)
This means that our troubles and afflictions have more meaning than we ever realize and imagine. They are never wasted. They are part of what God intends… to grow us up into the image of His Son so that we might fulfill our destiny of bringing Him glory and being a blessing to others along the way. It should comfort us to know that God has purpose and intention beyond our understanding for everything that He brings into our lives…everything!
God Bless y’all today.
In His Grip,
Pastor Mike
