Remember the story of Joseph in the Old Testament? His brothers’ betrayal? After Joseph rose to power, he pronounced these famous words in Genesis 45 when he revealed himself to his brothers:
“Come closer to me, I am Joseph your brother whom you sold into Egypt. But don’t feel badly, don’t blame yourselves for selling me. God was behind it. God sent me here ahead of you to save lives.”
Genesis 45:4-5 MSG
Although troubles are often perceived as evil, there is always purpose in our pain. God may allow struggles so we draw closer to him. We are being sanctified—refined by fire.
He loves us so much , His desire is we become more Christlike—moment by moment. There is no evil intent with God; He isn’t sending punishment when we go through a trial. He wants what’s best for us.
God sees the big picture—we don’t. Will we release our grip, give back control and trust Him to know what’s best? His plan is so much better than we can ask for or imagine, and His desire is to bless.
“Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.” James 1:24 MSG