From Setback to Victory

Everyone is different, and everyone has a different story. But God loves to take a huge setback and turn it into an astonishing victory or achievement.
 
God has a purpose and a plan for your life. He has done a good work in your life by bringing you to Christ. And He has also planned a work for you to do (Eph. 2:8–10). He had a work for Joseph to do that Joseph knew nothing about—and could not have imagined. And He has a work for you to do too.
 
When God starts a work, He finishes it. But don’t take my word for it; it’s an ironclad promise of Scripture: “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:6 ESV).
 
God is in control of your devastating loss. He understands our hurts and broken hearts when we’re blindsided. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Ps. 34:18).

We shouldn’t be surprised at the suffering and loss that come to us as we follow Christ. The Lord Jesus told us up front that “in the world you will have tribulation.” Acts 14:22 tells us that “through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” Philippians 1:29 clearly states the same truth: “It has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake.”
 
Joseph experienced loss that staggered him.  But his loss is an example for you and me. His loss was under the control of almighty God. So is your loss. And even when loss made no sense at all to him, there was a smiling Providence that was hidden behind the clouds of grief. His life wasn’t out of control.  It was under control
 
God had something great in mind for him.
 
God doesn’t waste this kind of suffering and loss. His plan for Joseph’s life was intentional and purposeful. It involved great suffering and loss.  But it wasn’t random suffering. It was purposeful. God wouldn’t leave him in his suffering.  He was refining and testing Him and one day he would come forth as gold.
 
That was true for Joseph.  
 
And it’s true for you.

—Steve Farrar

Steve Farrar is the author of many books, including the best-sellers Point Man and Finishing Strong, with his new book Battle Ready: Be Strong and of Good Courage in These Troubled Times soon to be released. Learn more at SteveFarrar.com.