“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”

Genesis 50:20
We all like to know that when we follow a certain path, we’ll get particular results. Even though we know God’s promises, our trust can be shaken when the circumstances seem to swallow those promised outcomes.

The Bible story of Joseph (Genesis 37-50) gives us insight into the working of God’s promises and plans. Joseph knew the promises to his forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He believed that God promised to raise him up for greatness. But his brothers’ jealousy led to his being sold into slavery; the attempted seduction by Potiphar’s wife and her false accusations resulted in his lengthy imprisonment.

Yet through the years of agony, God was orchestrating the events of Joseph’s life to fulfill His promises. Joseph could say confidently and lovingly to his brothers that what they meant to be evil against him, God meant for good. “You and I may never have the privilege in this life of seeing an obvious outcome of God’s plan for us, as Joseph did, but God’s plan for us is no less certain” (Jerry Bridges, 1988).



Scripture Focus

Genesis 50:15-21

Insight

“Trust God to weave your thread into the great web, though the pattern shows it not yet.” (George MacDonald, 1824–1905)

Bible In A Year

  • 1 Samuel 20-21
  • Psalm 130
  • 2 Corinthians 12

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