The Storm
Day 74 - Genesis 50:20
Scripture
Genesis 50:20 NIV
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
Reflection
The context of this verse speaks to the beauty of forgiveness.
Out of anger and jealousy, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery. Many years later, after he had risen to power, his Father Jacob passed away. He and his brothers honored the oath they had made before he passed and buried him in the land of Canaan, where Abraham and Isaac were also buried. After they mourned his death, his brothers were fearful that he would take revenge on them. Instead, he offered mercy and forgiveness. He promised to take care of them and their children and did so until he passed away in his old age.
The hardest part of our story is usually the catalyst that prepares us for our purpose. Suffering can either harden your heart or soften it. If you allow it, God will comfort you and use the most difficult parts of your story, for the good of those who love Him.
Not a tear is wasted.
I don’t know what you’re going through, but your story matters! I hope you choose to forgive and trust that God will take care of the rest. I hope you find peace in the surrender. I hope you see that life is so much sweeter when you let go of the bitterness that breeds separation and embrace the beauty of forgiveness. It’s more important to love each other than to carry resentment waiting for an apology. Sometimes, the most we can hope for is a little bit of understanding, and meeting somewhere in the middle can bring restoration to the relationships that truly matter.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for using every weapon formed against me to soften my heart and bring me closer to You. I pray that You use my story to spread the love of Jesus. I hope the whole world comes to know You because I can’t imagine suffering without the love and comfort of my Father. Cover me in Your peace and favor, Lord. Calm my heart and teach me how to draw wisdom from my hardships and embrace the calling You’ve laid on my heart. Help me to rise out of the ashes and stand before You as a warrior for Your Kingdom. Forgive me when I hold on to bitterness, anger, and resentment. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and show me the way to true forgiveness. Break my heart for what breaks Yours, and allow mercy and love to be my nature. In Your precious name, amen.
Reflection Questions
When you look back on some of the hardest chapters in your life, can you see how God has used them for good?
How have those moments shaped you?
Thank you!
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New International Version (NIV)
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