And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (NIV)
The Old Testament reveals the story of Joseph, Jacob’s son. Joseph had eleven brothers. He was his father’s favorite son and his brothers knew it. His brothers were angry at him because of this and also because of two dreams he shared with them. So, they plotted to kill him. But instead of following through with that plan, they sold him as a slave and convinced their father he was dead. Despite his life circumstances, Joseph excelled at everything he did. He became second in command in Potiphar’s house. Later, Potiphar’s wife falsely accused Joseph of inappropriate behavior because he refused to betray his master’s trust. This landed him in jail where he excelled again. He was given various jobs within the prison because of his good behavior. He ended up interpreting dreams for a few of pharaoh’s workers who were also sent to prison. Joseph eventually interpreted a dream for the pharaoh that gave him the strategy for dealing with a famine that was coming to the land. He made Joseph second in command of Egypt. With his new position, Joseph is able to help his family survive through the famine.
Looking at Joseph’s life, things didn’t go easy and that is probably not the life he would have chosen for himself. But in the end, God worked things out for him. Joseph was able to grow and develop into a person who could be trusted with great responsibility. He was in a position to take care of himself and his family. If God can do that for Joseph, he can do the same for you. While life may not always be easy or go the way you expect it, remember God has a way of making sure it will all work out for your good.