“But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people
alive.” Genesis 50:20 (NKJV)
Joseph endured unimaginable hardship. His brothers hated him, plotted to kill him, then sold him as a slave. In Egypt, Joseph was
wrongfully accused, and was thrown into prison. Undoubtedly, there were times when Joseph felt that God had abandoned him. Yet, in the end, we see that God had been with Joseph during it all. He was promoted to second in command in Egypt. In time, Joseph was able to see God’s plan and purpose for his life. Despite the hardships and tribulations, Joseph saw that God meant it all for good, and told his brothers of God’s goodness.
As Christians, there are times when the trials of life lead us to conclude that God has abandoned us. Perhaps a co-worker has slandered you, and your job is in jeopardy. Maybe a Christian brother or sister is gossiping about you with ill intentions. As a result of these issues, you do not possibly see how God can use this for good.
Be patient. 1 Corinthians 10:13b (NJKV) promises that “God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able.” Over the years, I can attest that despite all my failures, attacks of the enemy, unforeseen events, trauma, pain and, yes, even despite all
of my sin, God has been faithful. God has a miraculous way of turning negative events into wonderful blessings!
For example, God brought me a wife into a season of loneliness and toil. The Lord blessed us with funds to purchase a vehicle when we had no savings. Time and time again, God proved, when we least expected it, that He had worked it out for our good.
Dear friend, we can always doubt ourselves, but never doubt God. Be patient. He will provide you with what you need in His time.
— Steve Keesic
Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada.
The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website.
Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org