How can we trust God's plan when facing betrayal, as Joseph did? Betrayal in the Plan of God Acts 7:9: “Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him.” Joseph’s Dark Valley • Sold by his own brothers (Genesis 37:28). • Falsely accused in Egypt (Genesis 39:17–20). • Forgotten by those he helped (Genesis 40:23). • Yet every scene carries the same refrain: “The LORD was with Joseph” (Genesis 39:2, 21). Scripture’s Unbroken Thread • Psalm 105:17-19 recounts the story and adds God’s perspective: Joseph’s feet were bruised with shackles “until His word came to pass.” • Genesis 50:20 shows the outcome: what men meant for evil, God meant for good. • Acts 7:9 confirms it to the early church, anchoring their trust during fierce opposition. Why God’s Plan Can Be Trusted During Betrayal 1. God’s presence never departs – “But God was with him” (Acts 7:9). – Hebrews 13:5: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 2. God’s sovereignty governs every circumstance – Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” – Romans 8:28: “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” 3. God’s timing shapes character while fulfilling purpose – Psalm 105:19: “Until the word he had spoken came to pass, the word of the LORD tested him.” 4. God’s bigger story includes salvation for many – Genesis 50:20 and Acts 7 tie Joseph’s suffering to Israel’s preservation. – 1 Peter 2:23 points to Christ, whose betrayal secured redemption for the world. Practical Ways to Rest in the Same God • Rehearse His promises aloud each day (Isaiah 55:11; Romans 15:4). • Refuse bitterness; extend forgiveness as Joseph did (Ephesians 4:31-32). • Serve faithfully where you are, even if it feels like a prison (Colossians 3:23-24). • Look for evidence of God’s hand—small mercies are signposts of His presence (Lamentations 3:22-23). • Keep eternity in view; no betrayal can cancel the inheritance kept in heaven (1 Peter 1:3-5). Living Today in Joseph’s Confidence • Trust does not ignore pain; it places pain into God’s larger mosaic. • Obedience in obscurity prepares believers for influence in due season. • The same Lord who stood with Joseph and raised Jesus will stand with every child of God. Final Encouragement When betrayal strikes, Acts 7:9 whispers the unshakable truth: “But God was with him.” The words that carried Joseph through injustice, distance, and delay now carry every believer, ensuring that God’s plan will turn intended harm into unveiled good. |
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