Why Things Happen
中文: Chinese Version
“All that happens is by the Will of God.” — Charles de Foucauld (1856-1916)
As Win and I pondered this, she wondered where this is taught in the Bible.
What came to my mind was Joseph: Sold into slavery by his brothers. Dragged in chains to Egypt. Tragedy sufficient to destroy most people.
Yet the Bible gives insight: “he (God) _sent _a _man _before _them — Joseph, sold as a slave. They bruised his feet with shackles, his neck was put in irons.” — Psalm 105.17-19 NIV
As a result of Joseph’s suffering in Egypt, God’s people were saved from starvation. The story affirms Paul’s later teaching that all things work together for good for those who love God. (Rom. 8.28)
When Joseph later forgave and provided for his brothers, he told them, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Gen. 50.20 NIV)
Coffee/tea thought: Foucauld’s comment stands true. We, like Joseph while a slave, may not know “why”. But also like Joseph, we can learn to trust God.
John
Ref: Genesis 37-50
RSS