As the midterm elections approach it appears that many voters will not participate this year.  The young people who played such an important role in electing President Obama seem to be uninterested in the races before them.  That is sad, because so many people sacrificed greatly for the opportunity to vote.  Many of our ancestors suffered to see that we would have a better life.  Many of you may be suffering now so that someone else will benefit later.  Don't underestimate the good that can come from your willingness to suffer hardship for the price of peace. 

 

The passage above reveals how Joseph had come to the realization that it was God who orchestrated his life even though it was his brothers who had done so many mean things to him.  People who believe in divine destiny understand that the hand of God sometimes allows suffering in the lives of his children in order to obtain a greater good for others. It is divine sovereignty that undergirds the optimism of God's set purposes.  Part of God's purpose was to use Joseph to preserve the house of Israel during a terrible famine in the land.

 

Often times we want to lash out at others who seem to make life tough for us.  Sometimes we decide to have pity parties when tragedy comes our way.  I am not saying that we should not be disturbed when matters don't go the way we believe they should.  But always remember, that nothing happens that God doesn't either cause to happen, or allow to happen.  When God is allowing difficulty in your life, there is usually a greater good that will eventually come of it.  Your suffering may even be of a benefit to others. 

 

So as you go through your trials, have the attitude that Joseph displayed.  God's plan is being perfected through your sufferings.  And who knows, others may benefit because of what you had to go through!