“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
A friend just texted me that she had prayed this verse over me six months ago when circumstances went to crap. The verse comes from the story of Joseph. Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers—who were more concerned about their own image, status, and future than what might come of their brother.
Joseph worked and grew and achieved, despite the misfortune. But, despite his admirable efforts, he was a victim of further injustice—falsely accused of a rape attempt by the wife of his employer.
Again, Joseph won the mental game and elevated his emotions, staying connected to his God despite it all (I talk about how to do this in my course Life to the Whole. He rose to prominence in the prison system…. and eventual earned the opportunity to interpret a dream for the king of the land. He seized the divine moment and the king elevated him to be his “Number 2,” overseeing all of Egypt.
Not normal. But God loves to work like this. Everything appears to be circling the toilet bowl, but then it ends up to be a glorious waterfall.
What started as bad turns out for good.
What began as injustice turns to elevation.
What looked like tragedy turns to deliverance.
It’s God’s way. Jesus walked such a path. Why would we expect different for ourselves?
The journey is painful, but it makes for the best kind of story. And, like me, you’re living a great story.