Devil Intended For Evil, But God Meant It For Good. Series

The story of Joseph in Genesis 50:20 says, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." This powerful verse showcases God's sovereignty and ability to turn evil intentions into good outcomes.

1. Joseph's Brothers' Betrayal

Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery, intending to eliminate him from the family (Genesis 37:18-20). However, God used this betrayal to elevate Joseph to a position of power in Egypt, where he could save his family and many others from famine (Genesis 41:41-57).

2. Moses' Adoption

Pharaoh's daughter adopted Moses, intending to raise him as her own (Exodus 2:10). Yet, God used this adoption to place Moses in a position to lead the Israelites out of slavery and into their promised land (Exodus 3:10).

3. David and Goliath

Goliath, the Philistine giant, intended to intimidate and defeat the Israelites (1 Samuel 17:10). However, God used David's faith and bravery to defeat Goliath, securing a victory for Israel and establishing David as a hero (1 Samuel 17:51-53).

4. Esther's Royal Position

Haman, the king's advisor, plotted to destroy the Jewish people (Esther 3:8-15). Yet, God used Esther's position as queen to expose Haman's plan and save the Jewish people from persecution (Esther 7:1-10).

5. The Crucifixion of Jesus

The Roman soldiers and Jewish leaders intended to crucify Jesus, eliminating him as a threat (Matthew 27:35). However, God used this event to provide salvation for humanity through Jesus' sacrifice (Romans 5:8).

6. Paul's Imprisonment

The Roman authorities imprisoned Paul, intending to silence him (Acts 21:31-36). Yet, God used this imprisonment to allow Paul to spread the gospel to Caesar's household and many others (Philippians 1:12-14).

These examples demonstrate how God can take evil intentions and turn them into good outcomes. As Psalm 76:10 says, "Surely the wrath of man shall praise You; with the remainder of wrath You shall gird Yourself." Even in the midst of adversity, we can trust that God is working everything out for our good (Romans 8:28).

The Ultimate Example: The Cross

The crucifixion of Jesus is the ultimate example of God turning evil into good. The enemy's intention was to eliminate Jesus, but God's plan was to provide salvation for humanity. This event demonstrates the depth of God's love and his ability to redeem even the darkest of circumstances.

The Implications for Our Lives

Understanding that God can turn evil into good has profound implications for our lives. It means that:

No situation is too dire: No matter how bleak our circumstances may seem, God can still work everything out for our good.

No enemy is too powerful: Whether it's an external foe or an internal struggle, God can take what the enemy means for evil and turn it into something that brings us closer to Him.

No mistake is irreversible: Even our own mistakes and poor choices can be redeemed by God, who can use them to shape us into the people He created us to be.

The Call to Trust

In a world filled with uncertainty and adversity, we are called to trust in God's sovereignty. This trust is not a passive acceptance of our circumstances but an active faith that God is working everything out for our good.

The Path to Redemption

So, how can we experience this redemption in our lives? By:

Trusting in God's goodness: Recognizing that God is all-powerful and all-loving, and that He desires our ultimate good.

Seeking His guidance: Asking God to reveal His plan and purpose for our lives, even in the midst of adversity.

Embracing His sovereignty: Accepting that God is in control, even when circumstances seem chaotic or uncertain.

Conclusion

As we navigate life's challenges, we can trust that God is working everything out for our good, even when we can't see the outcome. By embracing this truth, we can experience the depth of God's love and redemption in our lives.