How can we trust God's plan when facing adversity, like Joseph in Genesis 50:20? Opening verse “ As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people.” (Genesis 50:20) Joseph’s long road to verse 50:20 • Betrayed by brothers (Genesis 37) • Sold into slavery, served in Potiphar’s house • Falsely accused, imprisoned (Genesis 39) • Forgotten by people he helped (Genesis 40) • Elevated to second-in-command of Egypt (Genesis 41) • Became the means of saving nations during famine (Genesis 42–47) • Looked back and declared God’s good intention (Genesis 50:20) God’s sovereign hand • Joseph’s hardships were never random; every step fit a divine design. • Scripture consistently affirms God working behind human actions: – Romans 8:28 “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him” – Psalm 138:8 “The LORD will fulfill His purpose for me” • Trust grows when we recognize Him as the Author writing a larger story than the scene we occupy. Why adversities serve a bigger purpose • They position us for future ministry we cannot yet see. • They refine character, turning pride into humility and fear into faith (James 1:2-4). • They showcase God’s glory when deliverance finally comes (1 Peter 5:10). • They bless others who will benefit from our obedience, just as nations lived because Joseph stored grain. Practical ways to rest in God’s plan • Remember past faithfulness: keep a written record of answered prayers. • Saturate the mind with Scripture promises such as Jeremiah 29:11 and Proverbs 3:5-6. • Choose obedience in present duties, trusting God with outcomes as Joseph did in Potiphar’s house and the prison. • Speak truth aloud: “God intends good in this.” Verbal affirmation counters anxious thoughts. • Cultivate patience, knowing timing belongs to the Lord; Joseph waited thirteen years before promotion. • Seek fellowship with believers who remind you of God’s purposes. Scripture echoes affirming this truth • Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you… to give you a future and a hope.” • Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • James 1:2-4 “Consider it pure joy… the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” • 1 Peter 5:10 “After you have suffered a little while… He will restore you.” Key truths to carry forward • God’s plan is unthwarted by human evil. • Present pain can be the pathway to future preservation—for you and for many others. • Trust grows by recalling Scripture, rehearsing God’s past deeds, and obeying in the now. • One day, like Joseph, believers will look back and clearly see how every setback was turned to good by the Lord’s unfailing hand. |
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