The presence of evil is all around us and has been inescapable since the time of Adam. God is not the author of evil – but He will take evil and use it for His divine purpose. He doesn’t call the evil good, evil is still evil, but His plans are always perfect.
Joseph was sold by his brothers into slavery, but later was used by God to save his people. He had the right perspective in declaring God’s sovereignty.
You planned evil against me; God planned it for good to bring about the present result--the survival of many people. Genesis 50:20
We see God’s redeeming purpose in:
Mordecai’s evil plan - that backfired and freed the Jews through Esther.
Daniel’s sentence to the lion’s den – that put God’s glory and power on display to the pagan nation.
Judas’ kiss - meant for betrayal but identified Jesus as the King.
And, of course, the crucifixion - meant to kill, but used to bring life to us all.
Throughout history, God has used the inevitable persecution to spread and strengthen the Church. He has used despair to provoke repentance and suffering to draw His children near.
And we know that all things work together for good, to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28
We see lots of evil today. But fellow Christ follower, take heart. God did not ordain it, nor approve of it. It breaks His heart. But He can use it - because He is God.
And the One seated upon the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new!” Revelation 21:5
