“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." - Isaiah 55:8-9
"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." - Romans 8:18
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28
"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." - Genesis 50:20
Genesis 50:20 - is referring to the incident of what happened to Joseph. Most of us know the story of Joseph. His story is told in Genesis (37–50). Sharing here is a very short summary below of Joseph's life, but I recommend best is to go ahead and read the whole event from the Bible.
Joseph was the 11th son of Jacob (or Israel). Jacob loved Joseph so much more than his brothers. His brothers hated Joseph and were jealous and sold him to the Egyptians and lied to their father that some animal killed Joseph.
In Egypt, the Lord's presence with Joseph enables him to find favor with Potiphar and the keeper of the prison. With God's help, Joseph interprets the dreams of two prisoners, predicting that one of them will be reinstated but the other put to death. Joseph then interprets the dreams of the Pharaoh, which anticipate seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. Pharaoh recognizes Joseph's God-given ability and prompts his promotion to the chief administrator of Egypt.
Due to shortage of food, everyone from all over, comes to Egypt for food which includes Joseph's brothers too. When Joseph encounters his brothers he accuses them to be spies and holds one of his brothers as hostage, in order, to bring their youngest brother, Benjamin.
This is a hard situation for Jacob (Israel) the father who heard this, because of his loss of his son, Joseph, he is afraid to lose Benjamin too.
Anyways, it was decided that Benjamin to be brought to Egypt. The brothers were given a grand feast and then Joseph revealed to His brothers who he really was.
Later, their father, Israel was brought to Egypt too and they lived there, then Israel died. The brothers were scared now that Joseph would take revenge instead this is what Joseph said to them in Genesis 50:20 - "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."
Joseph's life is a story of heroic redemption and forgiveness. Joseph's heart is truly saved, even when he could take revenge towards his brothers he did not. He continued to say that it was God who brought him to Egypt to establish His plans to save many lives.
This story shows how God's plan may not be obvious to our limited perspective but indeed "all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28
Let us be inspired by the Bible story of Joseph to have faith through our trials, knowing that God will deliver us in the glory of His justice.
The word of God is a reminder to remain obedient and steadfast in our Faith even when the answers to our prayers are delayed or unanswered.
The lessons we can take from this event of Joseph's life is that God's ways are higher than our ways. He is not quick to anger and His compassion far exceeds our own. God expects us to demonstrate His character. God don't make mistakes, even through hard circumstances we are in the palm of His hand.
May we never forget that everything that happens to us has to pass through the supervision of the Lord first. If we stay Faithful, He is faithful to bless us. Amen.
Let's Pray, Shall we?
Dear Lord, Thank you for having me in the palm of your hand. I am glad you have special plans for my life. Thank you for your Faithfulness in my life. May your presence go before me and open doors in my favor. I believe all things work good for those who are called according to your purpose. I know I am called by you and you have special intentions for my life. I trust you and I love you. In Jesus name, Amen.
I Pray this message has blessed you. May the Lord be with you and grand you much blessings. Enjoy a great day. Stay blessed.
Questions to Ponder:
Share in the comments about One thing that you are thankful for today? We love to hear from you and we are praying for you. Thank you. God bless.
Devotional Team: I Love Psalms
Comments
Post a Comment