God Works It All Out
Morning: Genesis 44-45
Evening: Matthew 14:1-21
Life doesn’t always go the way we planned. Sometimes it feels like everything is falling apart, and we wonder how God could possibly be working in the mess. Joseph’s story in Genesis 44-45 gives us a powerful example of how God can take even the worst situations—like betrayal by his own brothers—and use them for an incredible purpose. When Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, he tells them not to be distressed because, ultimately, God used their actions to save lives during the famine.
Fast forward to Matthew 14:1-21, and we see Jesus doing something equally amazing: feeding over 5,000 people with just five loaves of bread and two fish. Talk about making something out of nothing! These stories remind us that even when we can’t see it, God is always working for our good. Whether we’re dealing with broken relationships, overwhelming challenges, or feelings of inadequacy, we can trust Him to redeem the situation and provide exactly what we need.
Key Insights:
- God’s Plans Are Bigger Than Our Pain: Joseph’s life shows us that God can use even the deepest hurts for a greater purpose. What his brothers meant for harm, God used to save countless lives. In our own lives, God is working behind the scenes, even in the moments that feel hopeless.
- Forgiveness Opens the Door to Healing: Joseph could have chosen anger and revenge, but he forgave his brothers instead. That forgiveness not only restored their relationship but also brought healing to their family. Who in your life might need your forgiveness today?
- God Multiplies What We Offer Him: The boy in Matthew 14 had very little to give—just five loaves and two fish. But in Jesus’ hands, that small offering became more than enough. No matter how little we feel we have, God can use it when we surrender it to Him.
- Compassion Moves Us Toward Action: Jesus didn’t just notice the hungry crowd; He acted. Compassion isn’t just a feeling—it’s stepping out to meet the needs of others, even when it stretches us.
- Faith in the Face of Lack: The disciples didn’t see how feeding the crowd was possible, but Jesus showed them that nothing is impossible with God. Are you trusting Him to meet your needs today?
Connection to Other Scripture:
Joseph’s story and Jesus’ miracle both point to Romans 8:28, which promises that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” They also remind us of Ephesians 3:20, which says God is able to do “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” When we face impossible situations, these verses help us cling to hope, knowing that God is always working for our good and His glory.
Questions to Reflect On:
- Can you think of a time when God used a difficult season in your life for something good? How did it shape you?
- Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? What would it look like to let go of bitterness and trust God with the outcome?
- What “small” thing do you have that you can offer to God—your time, resources, talents—and how might He multiply it?
- How can you take action to show compassion to someone in need today?
- Are you trusting God to provide for you in a situation that feels overwhelming or impossible?
A Prayer for Today:
Lord, thank You for working behind the scenes, even when I don’t understand what’s happening. Help me to trust that You have a plan and a purpose for every part of my life—even the hard and messy parts. Teach me to forgive, to show compassion, and to trust You with what I have, no matter how small it seems. Multiply my faith, and remind me that nothing is impossible with You. Thank You for always providing, always working, and always loving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.