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God Meant It For Good

Text: Genesis 50
24 June 2018

KNOWING THE EVIL INTENT OF JOSEPH’S BROTHERS

1. The evil intent of his brothers

“But as for you, you meant evil against me…”   Genesis 50:20
a. Initially, the brothers hated him   (Genesis 37:4)
b. They conspired against him to kill him   (Genesis 37:18)
c. They sold him as a slave

2. Where once evil intent existed, fear prevailed   (Genesis 50:15-18)

a. They thought Joseph would take revenge on them
b. They were fearful of him
c. They lied about how their father had told them
i. To tell Joseph to forgive them
ii. They did evil against him

UNDERSTANDING THE LORD’S PROFOUND HAND OF BLESSING

“But God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.”   Genesis 50:20

1. God’s goodness prevailed

a. God’s intent was for good
b. God’s goodness prevailed over evil

2. God’s power prevailed

a. God turned around the situation
b. God turned evil into a blessing

3. God’s purposes prevailed

a. To save lives
b. To work on Joseph’s life

4. God’s mercies prevailed

a. It was all about the Lord’s mercies and grace
b. It was Lord’s mercies in Joseph’s life

HAVING A RIGHT AND MATURE RESPONSE

“Now therefore, do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your little ones.”   Genesis 50:21

1. Words of great graciousness   (Genesis 50:21)

a. Assurance to not be afraid
b. Provision for his brothers and their little ones

2. Acts of love

a. Comforted them
b. Spoke kindly to them

3. The blessings of God affected Joseph

a. He was tested by life’s challenges
b. He was blessed by the Lord richly
c. He learnt humility and graciousness
d. He sought to bless others