Dear COA family,
Can something good come out of a bad situation?
Joseph in the Old Testament was sold as a slave by his brothers even though he had not done anything wrong. It was a heartless and cruel act of betrayal. Yet God was with Joseph throughout his trials and raised him to be the prime minister of a major global power of his time. Through his leadership and influence as the right-hand man of Pharaoh, king of Egypt, he not only saved the entire known world from famine but also his own family from starvation.
Joseph’s faith in God was especially evident in his interaction with his brothers. When presented the opportunity to punish them for their wrongs, he said instead, “And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you” (Genesis 45:5).
What an amazing attitude he had! He saw God’s hand in the trials he endured. He trusted that God could turn a negative encounter into one that was for good. Can we adopt the same mindset in our lives when we encounter adversities?
Recently while driving the church van, I was jolted when I felt a collision to the back of the van in a carpark. Another car had hit the van’s rear bumper while being parked. The driver came to me apologising for his carelessness.
It was a negative situation because repairs to both vehicles would cost time, money and inconvenience to both parties. Yet I assured him that I would not take advantage of his mistake by overcharging him for repairs. I then introduced myself as the Vicar of Church of the Ascension and spoke kindly with him.
As a result, what was a bad situation actually turned out for good. He further shared his family struggles with me and I was able to pray for him. We turned from being strangers to friends. And he then even volunteered to help out at our church activities, should we require his services as a professional freelance photographer and videographer.
How was I able to have such a positive attitude? It was because the Holy Spirit was reminding me throughout to display love and hospitality to him. And I was further assured by the Lord’s promise: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). I was looking forward to the good that will come out from this situation!
Perhaps you might be feeling discouraged from a not so ideal experience or result in your past week. Would you instead look to the Holy Spirit for strength and assurance to accomplish the Lord’s will regardless of the circumstance and trust his deliverance?
Blessings,
Revd Ian