When Things Don’t Go Well

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28 nrsv

We are creatures of comfort. Given the option, we will choose the path that gets us where we want to go with the least disruption and in the least time. But as we all know, life seldom goes as planned. And when it doesn’t, the first words that many people quote are from Romans 8:28. But those are not the words most people want to hear. It’s hard to believe that something good can and will come out of what we believe to be our darkest hour.

However, many events in Scripture show God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life, and his power to bring good from a bad situation. One such story is that of Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers. They were jealous of Joseph and wanted him gone. Joseph endured years of uncertainty and doubt about his future. As the story unfolds, we can see the larger picture behind the twenty-three years Joseph endured slavery, imprisonment, and trials. We learn that because of Joseph’s faithfulness, even in prison, he was promoted to a position of power in Egypt that provided him the opportunity to save his family—and his nation—from a severe famine. In God’s sovereignty, Joseph was in Egypt at the right time. As he told his brothers in 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.

When our lives are turned upside down, it is hard to understand how anything good can result. In fact, we might not gain full understanding this side of heaven. But in our trial, we can trust that God’s plan for those who are called by him includes a greater purpose, even if we can’t see it right now.

The idea of redemption is always good news, even if it means sacrifice or some difficult times.

Patti Smith

Keep calm when things don’t go according to your expectations. Beautiful things always meet friction.

Ernest Agyemang Yeboah

When things do not go your way, remember that every challenge—every adversity—contains within it seeds of opportunity and growth.

Roy T. Bennett

For Further Reflection

Job 42:1–2; Psalm 40:5; Romans 11:33

Today’s Prayer

Lord, I don’t understand why you chose me to have this illness. I confess I struggle to see what good can be in this. But I trust that, in your hands, this journey will give you the glory. Amen.