By Andrew Williams
Series: The Living Gospel (Week 1: Uncovering Your Narrative)
Opening Prayer
Redeemer God, You are the master of turning brokenness into beauty. We trust You to redeem the most painful parts of our story for good.
Today’s Scripture (NLT)
Genesis 50:20
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Some of the deepest wounds in our stories come from the actions of others or the consequences of our own worst mistakes. It’s easy to want to hide these parts of our narrative, to cover up the scars of betrayal, failure, or shame. But our God is a God of redemption.
Joseph speaks these powerful words to his brothers who had sold him into slavery. He acknowledges the reality of their evil intent: “You intended to harm me.” He doesn’t minimize the wound. “But God…” These are two of the most hopeful words in Scripture. Joseph had the perspective to see that God was so sovereign, He was able to take the very worst thing that had ever happened to him and use it for an incredible, redemptive purpose.
God can do the same with your wounds. The scars you carry are not symbols of your shame; they can become symbols of His grace. He can take the brokenness you experienced and use it to bring healing and hope to others. Your story of being wounded and then healed by God can be the very thing that saves someone else from despair.
Disciples’ Life Tip: Is there a past wound or scar that you have been hiding in shame? Ask God this brave question: “Lord, how do you want to redeem this part of my story? How can my healing bring hope to someone else?”
Closing Prayer: Lord God, I offer You my deepest wounds and my most painful memories. I trust that in Your hands, what was intended for harm, You will intend for good. Use my scars to tell Your story of redemption. Amen.
