God Prepares

"But now, do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life." 

--Genesis 45:5  (NKJV)

From the daily Bible reading on January 25, 2013 of Psalm 20; Matthew 17:14-18:14; Genesis 45-46.

Joseph's brothers hated him, mostly because of the preferential treatment he received from their father, Jacob.  When the opportunity presented itself, they almost killed him, but instead sold him into slavery and lied to their father saying he had been killed by an animal.  Joseph suffered greatly during these years, including being falsely accused and imprisoned.  But God was with Joseph the whole time and smiled on him so that everything he did or had to do with prospered by God's hand.  Eventually he was made second  only to Pharaoh himself over all Egypt.  In this way he was able to save many lives, and most importantly to preserve the house of Jacob.  God turned evil into good.  Jacob completely forgave his brothers for he saw how God had worked.  Amen.

Heavenly Father, You have promised and we have seen that You will turn any evil into good for those who love You and obey Your voice.  Forgive us, Lord, when sometimes we forget this, when it seems to be taking too long in our time frame, when we feel like we have been suffering without ceasing and without any signs of Your aid.  Help us, please Lord, to understand that You will make all things good in Your time.  In the beautiful name of Jesus we pray.  Amen.