Harm becomes good

As we pray for others, that their struggle, pain, suffering, or need is addressed, solved, healed, and relieved, we also can recognize that God may well use all of that for His and their good. Joseph of Genesis endured tremendous hardship, particularly from his family of origin. By the Grace of God, he was protected, restored, and elevated to a high position in his unchosen homeland and people. In addressing his brothers, who were terrified that he would eventually seek revenge, he said, you intended to harm me, but God intended it for good…. (Genesis 50:20). As we intercede, we need to adopt Joseph’s attitude, trusting that, in allowing harm to come for those for whom we pray, God will ultimately use it for some good, perhaps yet unseen.