Living the Dream: A Devotional for Students Through the Life of JosephSýnishorn

Day 14 - Intended for Good

We know this to be true, the world is broken and pain is a common occurrence. Pain comes in many sizes and can be inflicted by those around us- whether close to you or not. For some, you've felt physical pain perhaps from abuse or neglect. Someone who was meant to love and care for you betrayed you and hurt you deeply. Maybe you have felt emotional pain perhaps from a friend who betrayed your trust or a relationship that ended abruptly. Whether you've found yourself deeply wounded by a family member, been betrayed by a close friendship, walked through an ugly breakup, or anything in between, we have all been hurt by someone in some way.

Since we are an imperfect people, we may find ourselves naturally responding to the pain we face in an unhealthy way. We often think we're justified to hold onto our anger, lashing out and responding with bitterness. Holding a grudge can feel good and we can find ourselves easily badmouthing those who hurt us.

But God doesn’t call us to do what comes naturally for us. He challenges us and calls us to forgiveness because, when we admit to him our pain and our hurt, he is able to redeem any situation for good. We saw in Joseph's story that, when he was reunited with his brothers, he didn't get stuck in his pain. Instead, he recognized and embraced the good that God had intended all along. In fact, he said,

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."-Genesis 50:20

Joseph had so many reasons to be bitter and hurt. He was deeply betrayed by the very people who should have protected and loved him. But he chose to forgive instead and trust that God could accomplish good even in the hardest of circumstances.

Reflect:

What is one way you have been hurt by someone recently?

What would it look like to forgive that person?

Pray for the person that has hurt you. Pray that God would bless this person, no strings attached.