There are several lessons here in chapter 45 but the lesson that catches my eye quickly is how God had a plan for the trials and difficulties that we go through.
Remember, it was Joseph's brothers who were jealous of him and wanted to kill him. However, through Gods providence his life is spared and he is sold into slavery in Egypt. Through God ordained events Joseph rises to second in command in Egypt and through his leadership Egypt and others survive a severe famine. But notice. Joseph recognizes it is God who orchestrated all of this.
In verse 5 he reveals himself to his brothers and tells them not to be upset that they sold him into slavery for God sent me before you to preserve life. Joseph realizes God had a plan through the trial. He was using a trial to bring about His perfect plan. In verses 7-8 he again gives credit to God for sending him to Egypt. Not the brothers. What they meant for evil, God used for good.
We need that perspective when we go through trials. The Bible tells us in Romans 8:28 that God can bring good out of anything. Not everything that happens in our life is good. Terrible things happen. But God is still in control. And because he loves us he will bring good out of it.
God uses trials for our good and for the good of others.
You may be going through a trial right now. Things may look very bleak. You may not see how any good can come out of the circumstances you are facing. As you go through these times remember Joseph. Look at the trials that he went through and then remember how God used those trials. So much good came out of those trials. God was still in control and his plan and purpose for those trials could not be defeated. It's the same way with your trials. God loves you and his purpose for your life will not be defeated if you continue to follow his plan. So in those dark days study his promises and claim them. Let his love wash over you and trust him. He loves you! And he is still in control!
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