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Week Eight, Day Five

Joseph eventually identified himself to his brothers. This seemed to cause them to be more afraid than when they thought Joseph was simply an Egyptian official who suspected them of being spies. Joseph’s reaction to them, and his theology of life, are summarized in a startling statement found in Genesis 50:20. Joseph says to his guilt-ridden brothers about their actions in selling him into slavery: “You intended it for evil, but God intended it for good.”

Joseph refused to see himself as a victim. Whatever circumstances of life he found himself in, Joseph found a way to do his best, make a contribution, and rise to the top of the situation. His ability to do that may have well been rooted in his trust that, whatever happened, his life belonged to God.

Romans 8:28 says that, “God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love God.” On the face of it, you might understand that to mean that God will only let good things happen to those who love God. The trouble is that isn’t true. Lots of bad things happen to good people. Lots of bad things happened to Joseph.

A more accurate understanding of this passage in Romans, and Joseph’s statement might be:

Living as someone who believes s/he is loved by God
allows good things to come out of even painful circumstances.

God is the source of life, and, when we cooperatively trust life’s source, somehow things work out for the best. It doesn’t mean bad things don’t happen, but it does mean that we don’t make it worse by becoming bitter, vindictive or cynical.

Cooperating with life in every circumstance is always a better choice. Even if others may intend to harm us, we must live as people who trust that God’s only intent/desire for us is good. Trusting God is faith, and Jesus said faith could move mountains.

Blessings,

Michael
President, Hope for Peace & Justice

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