Often times we become angry and depressed when something dreadful happens in our lives.
For example:
death
loosing “friends”
unemployment
bad health diagnosis
betrayal
Just to name a few. As we try to process the reality of it all it becomes hard to work through daily life as normal as we possibly can because we are so trying to hide our true feelings behind it all. We start to ask questions, “why me” but have you ever paused and ask why not you? No matter the situation, have you ever thought God has allowed this to happen. Do not be mistaken, I am not referring to situations that we sometimes place ourselves in because of our own bad choices. I am implying the situations in which we do not understand how or why it is even happening without cause. The things we have no control over.
The story of Joseph ( Genesis 37-50) is an example of accepting what God allows. He was the 11th son of Jacob, who was plotted against to be killed, thrown into a pit, and sold to slavery by his own brothers because they despised him, his dreams, and the favor that he had with their father. He was 17 years old. As you read the text, you will find that no matter what Joseph did the Lord was with him and he obtained favor naturally. He became second in command and ruler over Egypt. Fast forward to the encounter that he had with his brothers during the seven years of famine, whom they did not recognize. Joseph’s family was empty of food and coming to the place where Joseph was ruler was their only option in preserving their lives. Later, when Joseph finally reveals himself to his brothers, they were speechless. Joseph says do not be angry with yourselves, that you did this to me, for God did it. He sent him there ahead of time so that Joseph can preserve their lives for that moment. Jacob’s entire family ( there were very many) was brought to reside in the best land in Egypt. In the end after their fathers’ death, the brothers became afraid of thinking that Joseph would seek revenge for what they had done to him years ago. Joseph told them, God turned into good what you meant for evil. accept what God allows We may not understand it now but we have to trust that the Lord is always will us. There are things we go through, now and then that are meant to save lives. We may not have understood it then but it happened so we could be equipped to help in the future. Our dreadful experiences can lead to us becoming a ruler of many. Meaning they can launch successful businesses, that will preserve the lives of others. There is a purpose for every good and bad thing that God allows. Accept it. God is with you and where he is his favor follows. Be encouraged.