May 7

And as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. Genesis 50:20.

I find this one of the more fascinating verses in the Bible. Joseph, even though he had been sold into slavery, had been falsely accused and made to suffer for years in prison, still fully understood the ways of God that would lead to the salvation of his brothers. Oh that we could capture that message from God. As I see how I am misunderstood, as I sometimes experience hostility from others, can I see the greater vision of how God is at work in our lives? He will bring about change in my ways as well as the ways of those around me, if I would only listen and obey. He would have me forgive others, for that is the mark of the Spirit within me that knows fully well that Christ has paid the price for all sin. It is not all about me, as I would sometimes think. It is about all the people of this world and how God loves them.

Today, Lord Jesus, let me be Your vehicle of grace and love as I encounter all around me. It is Your life that sustains me and Your life that I want to share. Nothing else will achieve the goals set before us. And always, let me listen to Your voice that shows the way. Let me not focus on what appears to be evil, but on the ultimate purposes You have for us. Amen.
                                        Back