BUT GOD intended it for GOOD

Scripture:

Genesis 50:20 (NIV) 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 (MSG) Don't you see, you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good, as you see all around you right now--life for many people.

Observation:

Now that Jacob (or Israel) was dead, the brothers feared revenge from Joseph. Could he really have forgiven them for selling him into slavery? But to their surprise, Joseph not only forgave them but reassured them, offering to care for them and their families. Joseph's forgiveness was complete. He demonstrated how God graciously accepts us even though we don't deserve it. Because God forgives us even when we have ignored or rejected him, we should graciously forgive others.

God brought good from the brothers' evil deed, Potiphar's wife's false accusation, the cup-bearer's neglect, and seven years of famine. The experiences in Joseph's life taught him that God brings good from evil for those who trust him. Do you trust God enough to wait patiently for him to bring good out of bad situations? You can trust him because, as Joseph learned, God can overrule people's evil intentions to bring about his intended results.

Application:

Genesis 50:20 always reminds me of the need to have 50/20 vision. Anything that happens to me, even if the enemy intends it to harm me, God can take those same plans and turn them around for His purposes, and for my good! Satan tried to plan and scheme to destroy Joseph, BUT GOD turned it around and intended it for good!

Genesis 50:20 is the Old Testament's "Romans 8:28":

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

God works in "everything"-not just isolated incidents-for our good. This does not mean that all that happens to us is good. Evil is prevalent in our fallen world, but God is able to turn every circumstance around for our long-range good. Note that God is not working to make us happy but to fulfill his purpose. Note also that this promise is not for everybody. It can be claimed only by those who love God and are called by him, that is, those whom the Holy Spirit convinces to receive Christ. Such people have a new perspective, a new mind-set. They trust in God, not in worldly treasures; their security is in heaven, not on earth. Their faith in God does not waver in pain and persecution because they know God is with them.

Prayer:

"Lord, I am so thankful that you take what was intended to harm me by the enemy of my soul, and turn it around for my good. It is difficult to "know" that at times, but thank you for this reminder today. I choose to walk with this truth at the forefront of my mind and spirit today. I trust you and your sovreignity, and KNOW that you are directing my life and steps. In Jesus' name, amen!"