“And as for you, you meant it for evil, but God meant it for good…” (Genesis 50:20) It was true when Joseph said it to his brothers. It was true when Saul persecuted the church in Jerusalem. It is true today. It is true in the life of Christ’s Church as a whole. And it is true in your own, individual life. Why? Because Jesus Christ is absolutely sovereign–and infinitely wise and good.
It does not always feel or appear that way to us; often just the opposite, Why? Because Is. 55:8-9 is equally true: “my thoughts are not your thoughts; neither are your ways my ways; For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
But it is always true, nonetheless: If you belong to Jesus Christ, He Who loves and redeemed you permits your suffering and, is ordering it for your good. So take heart, Beloved! Trust Him! Praise Him! Your “momentary, light affliction is preparing for you an eternal weight of glory…” (2 Corinthians 4:17)
“And after you have suffered “for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. 11 To Him be [glory and] dominion forever and ever.” (1 Peter 5:10)
From the Sermon “Scattered…Ravaged…and Blessed” on Acts 8:1-4, December 8, 2019