We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him,
those whom he has called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (GNB)
In life we are all dealt crippling blows. Blows that really hurt and
can sometimes crush us. A serious accident, an illness, being made
redundant, an emotional betrayal, bad things happen to people all the
time.
At such times it is natural to turn to God and ask, “Why Lord, why is this happening to me?”
Joseph must have asked the same question. Bullied by his brothers,
robbed of his cloak, thrown in a well, and then sold into slavery to
Potiphar, captain of the King of Egypt’s palace guard. Where was God in
all this? (Genesis 37:23-28)
Joseph did prosper under his slave owner but his troubles were far
from over. Although totally innocent, he was falsely accused of
attempted rape by Potiphar’s wife and falsely imprisoned.
It was only many years later that Joseph finally realised that God
had turned the evil that had been done to him into good, in order to
save the lives of many people. (Genesis 50:20)
Joseph, Moses, Isaiah, Ezekiel, the Bible contains many examples of
people who underwent great hardships which God turned to the good for
his purpose.
He works in our lives too, for he has a wonderful plan and a purpose
for each one of us. There may be times when we are at a complete loss to
understand what is happening to us, and why.
Then more than ever, we need to move forward trusting in him.
Confident in the knowledge that his love and his power will carry us
through and we will ultimately share in his glory.
Prayer: Sovereign Father, we are often troubled and
stressed when we find ourselves in circumstances beyond our control.
Grant us the serenity to accept that both our present and our future are
in your keeping and we may rest secure in you. We pray this in Jesus
name. Amen.
