Look for the Hand of God in All Things

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, Ephesians 1:11

God can make the wrong decisions of the people around you to work in your favor. So instead of looking for someone to blame, try to see the hand of God at work in your situation. Joseph discovered three things: 1) When God wants you in a palace, nobody can keep you in a prison. 2) Your future isn’t in the hands of others; it’s in the hands of God. 3) Your God-given assignment in life doesn’t call for the cooperation or approval of everyone, but it does require the cooperation of one person – you. Joseph’s brothers made a wrong decision by resenting him. Potiphar’s wife made a wrong decision by falsely accusing him. And the butler made a wrong decision by turning his back on him. But God did the right thing by him! He arranged every step Joseph took, all the way to the throne. After years apart, Joseph stood face-to-face with those who had treated him so badly, and said, ‘You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good’ (Genesis 50:20). Try to understand this: the purposes of God will eventually overcome the plans of men. No one can prevent God from using you, blessing you, and giving you success, except you. So keep your heart and your attitude right! The Message paraphrases Paul’s words, ‘Long before we first heard of Christ…he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone’ (Ephesians 1:11-12). So look for the hand of God in ‘all things’.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I place myself in Your hands so that I can see Your hand in everything. In Jesus’ Name, Amen