WHAT YOU MEANT FOR EVIL
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Genesis 50:19-21
Key Verse: “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.” (Genesis 50:20)
Supporting Texts: Genesis 45:5-8; Romans 8:28; Psalm 105:17-19; Isaiah 54:17
INTRODUCTION
Few statements in Scripture carry the depth of maturity found in Joseph’s words to his brothers: “You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good.” These words were not spoken from a place of denial, but from revelation. Joseph acknowledged the reality of their evil intent, yet he recognized a higher divine purpose at work.
Life sometimes brings betrayal, misunderstanding, and injustice. Yet the sovereignty of God ensures that evil intentions cannot overturn divine destiny. When God intervenes, He does not merely repair damage, He repurposes it.
1. THE REALITY OF EVIL INTENT
Joseph did not pretend the betrayal never happened.
a) Betrayal by Family (Genesis 37:18-28)
His brothers conspired against him and sold him into slavery.
b) False Accusation (Genesis 39:13-20)
He suffered unjust imprisonment despite integrity.
c) Forgotten by Those Helped (Genesis 40:23)
The butler forgot Joseph after receiving help.
d) Evil Is Real
Scripture does not deny the presence of wrongdoing.
Biblical Example: David faced repeated attempts on his life by Saul despite his loyalty (1 Samuel 18-19).
2. GOD’S SOVEREIGN OVERRIDE
Though evil exists, God’s purpose remains supreme.
a) Divine Reframing (Genesis 45:5)
Joseph saw that God sent him ahead for preservation.
b) Purpose in Process (Psalm 105:17-19)
Joseph was tested until the word of the Lord proved him true.
c) All Things Working Together (Romans 8:28)
God orchestrates outcomes beyond human manipulation.
d) No Weapon Shall Prevail (Isaiah 54:17)
Opposition cannot cancel divine assignment.
Biblical Example: The crucifixion of Jesus, though driven by evil intent, became the means of salvation for humanity (Acts 2:23-24).
3. THE POWER OF PERSPECTIVE
Joseph’s response reveals spiritual maturity.
a) Choosing Forgiveness (Genesis 50:21)
He comforted the very ones who wronged him.
b) Refusing Revenge (Genesis 50:19)
He acknowledged that judgment belongs to God.
c) Seeing Beyond the Pain
He focused on the outcome rather than the offense.
d) Victory Over Bitterness
Forgiveness released him into greater freedom.
Biblical Example: Stephen prayed for those who stoned him, demonstrating grace under persecution (Acts 7:59-60).
4. THE PURPOSE BEHIND THE PAIN
God does not waste suffering.
a) Preservation of Many (Genesis 50:20)
Joseph’s hardship led to the survival of nations.
b) Fulfillment of Dreams (Genesis 42:6)
The dreams of his youth came to pass.
c) Restoration of Family
Reconciliation followed revelation.
d) Testimony of Sovereignty
Joseph’s life became evidence of divine orchestration.
Biblical Example: Job’s suffering ended in restoration and greater blessing (Job 42:10).
CONCLUSION
“What you meant for evil” may have caused pain, delay, and tears but it cannot override divine purpose. God specializes in turning betrayal into breakthrough and injustice into influence.
Joseph’s story reminds us that destiny is stronger than malice. When we trust God’s sovereignty, we discover that even painful chapters are part of a redemptive narrative.
The evil intention may have been real but God’s intention is greater.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, help me trust Your sovereignty in difficult seasons in Jesus name.
2. Lord, heal every wound caused by betrayal in Jesus name.
3. Father, give me grace to forgive those who wronged me in Jesus name.
4. Lord, transform every evil intention into divine promotion in Jesus name.
5. Father, protect my destiny from malicious attacks in Jesus name.
6. Lord, give me perspective to see Your hand at work in Jesus name.
7. Father, remove bitterness from my heart in Jesus name.
8. Lord, turn my trials into testimonies in Jesus name.
9. Father, let my pain produce purpose in Jesus name.
10. Lord, establish Your good intention in my life in Jesus name.
