What Man Intended for Evil, God Used for Good

Scripture Focus

"As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today."— Genesis 50:20

"We know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose."— Romans 8:28

Devotional Reflection

Joseph’s life was marked by betrayal, suffering, and injustice. His own brothers sold him into slavery, stripping him of his home, his freedom, and his future. He was falsely accused, imprisoned, and forgotten. From the outside, his story looked like a tragedy.

But God was at work.

Years later, when Joseph stood before the very brothers who had betrayed him, he spoke words that reveal the heart of faith: "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good." Joseph had suffered greatly, but he had also seen God’s faithfulness unfold. He realized that every hardship was not wasted—God had been orchestrating redemption the entire time.

We, too, face circumstances that seem unfair, painful, and beyond our control. Betrayal, loss, suffering—these things threaten to define us. But Joseph’s story reminds us that our suffering does not have the final say. God does. What the enemy intends for evil, God is working for good. Even in the waiting, even in the pain, He is shaping something beautiful out of the brokenness.

If you are walking through a season of suffering, take heart: your story is not over. The same God who brought Joseph from the pit to the palace is the One who is working in your life today.

Inhale Truth, Exhale Trust

Breath Prayer: (Inhale) Lord, You are sovereign in my suffering. (Exhale) I trust You to bring good from this.

How to Practice a Breath Prayer:

Take a moment to breathe deeply. As you inhale, remind yourself that God is sovereign over your circumstances. As you exhale, surrender your pain and trust that He is working all things for good.

Practical Application

• Look for God’s Hand. Reflect on a past hardship. How has God brought something good from it?

• Choose Trust Over Bitterness. If you are in a season of struggle, ask God to help you trust His purpose instead of giving in to discouragement.

• Encourage Someone Else. Joseph’s suffering ultimately led to the saving of many lives. How might your own trials be used to bring hope to others?

Journal Prompt

What situation in your life feels unfair or painful right now? How can Joseph’s story encourage you to trust God’s greater plan?

Closing Prayer

Father, I don’t always understand why trials come, but I trust that You are working all things for good. When I am tempted to despair, remind me that You are sovereign, even in suffering. Give me faith like Joseph—to see Your purpose, to trust Your timing, and to rest in Your unfailing goodness. Amen.

Invitation to Live with Truth, Goodness, and Beauty

God is not absent in your suffering. He is present, working behind the scenes, turning what was meant for evil into something good. Hold on to hope—your story is still unfolding.