Our verse for week 22 are the words of compassion that Joseph spoke to his brothers.
Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Remember all the horrible things Joseph’s brothers did to him? They plotted against him, threw him in an empty well, sold him into slavery, and then faked his death by making it look like wild animals had killed him! If someone had treated me the way Joseph’s brothers treated him, I’m not sure I’d be as understanding and compassionate. Joseph saw the big picture. He saw how God used his hard journey to glorify Him, save Egypt, his family, and so many others.
A friend of mine Cheryl Winham (cherylwinham.com) wrote and shared this a year ago and recently shared again as a reminder. Since this is the verse I had picked for week 22 I knew I needed to share her words with you as well!
“So many are in a hard season or are in the waiting. Nothing looks like it should or how you hoped or dreamed or planned. God wastes nothing. And He will not waste this season. He is working things out far beyond your imagination. He is restoring things beyond your wildest dreams. He is refining and shaping you so you can support and love others in their hard seasons.
What is ashes will be beauty.
What is sorrow will be joy.
What is confusion will be clarity.
What is wandering will be direction.
What is uncertainty will be purpose.
You are seen.
I see you, friend.”
