Genesis 50:19-21

But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 21 So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them. - Genesis 50:19-21

Dear Heavenly Father,

It's one of the most impressive stories of grace and forgiveness this world has ever seen. What's more fascinating is that Joseph rose up to forgive and maintain grace toward his disappointing family long before your Son hung on the cross and cried out, "Father forgive them." Joseph embraced your promised plan to redeem his disappointing life and make it serve a much higher purpose. He refused to play God and make a judgement on his situation. He recognized your intervening hand in all times, good and bad. He trusted your motives to work everything, even the worst things for a good and divine purpose. Oh God, give me the faith of Joseph so I heal from all my disappointments.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

Our lives are but a paragraph in a chapter of an epic story of redemption for the entirety of humanity. They make no sense apart from that insight.

Additional Reading: Romans 8:18-39