Today’s Reading, Genesis 48-50
Focal Scripture: Genesis 50:20 “You planned evil against me; God planned it for good to bring about the present result — the survival of many people.”
I am a planner. I like for things to be a certain way and to happen at a certain time. My plans can create frustration for others because I can become very rigid in the implementation. Why? Being very transparent I consider my plans to be very well thought out. I also consider them to be plans that will use time extremely efficiently. This belief can often lead to sin because I believe my planning can’t fail. My planning is nothing compared to the Lords.
In today’s reading Joseph’s tells his bothers that they planned evil against him, however, the Lord planned those situations for good. Joseph was making a bold declaration, God is in charge and his plans are perfect. This is even true when we experience suffering. This is even true when other people believe they are hurting or harming us in our lives. No situation or detail is outside of the Lord’s foreknowledge and plans.
Why does this matter? Because knowing that man’s plans are not the final authority gives us hope. How do I know this? My plans are based on bias and finite knowledge. My plans are based on my preferences and beliefs. My plans can be tainted by sin and disobedience. However, the plans of the Lord are perfect and powerful. They also take into account the evil and wickedness of people. The Lords plans are greater than the smartest person ever to exist.
I find this truth comforting, especially when I think about people who wish to do me harm. Maybe it is even people who want to see me fail, personally and professionally. These people may win a small victory while I suffer and go through difficulties. However, I know that the Lord plans to use my situation to prepare me for the future and fulfill his ultimate goal in my life and others.
What I want to convey today is trust in the Lords plans. Trust that every situation we face has a greater purpose. A knowledge that nothing can happen to you that doesn’t have the foreknowledge of God. A confidence that the Lords plans trump any evil we may experience.
I am not sure where your faith is at today but hold onto this truth: The Lord knows what is coming your way. It will be used to his advantage and our good.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Exodus 1-3
