Upside Of The Downside

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present outcome, that many people would be kept alive [as they are this day].

Genesis 50:20 amp

Sometimes God puts us on a trajectory we think will bring us joy. Other times we encounter detours and setbacks.

In Joseph’s early years, he experienced one setback after another. His brothers were intensely jealous of him and sold him into slavery. He endured many years of imprisonment and separation from his family and homeland. After eleven years, Joseph interpreted dreams for Pharaoh’s butler and baker. He hoped that such attention would improve his situation, but the baker died (as Joseph had told him would happen, based on the dream) and the butler, once released, quickly forgot about Joseph. Two years later, Joseph interpreted a dream for Pharaoh. After this event, Joseph got promoted. Nine years later, during an intense famine, Joseph’s family came to Egypt for food, and eventually Joseph reunited with them.

Joseph ended up being instrumental in saving his family and the citizens of Egypt. But that was not Joseph’s plan, nor his family’s plan. As Joseph reflected on his life, he realized that his setbacks were God’s way to provide and save his family.

When we face a difficult relationship, a job loss, a chronic mental health diagnosis, or any other setback, it’s hard to see the upside. But our struggles have a higher purpose that brings spiritual blessing. As the book of James says, “Consider it pure joy … whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance (James 1:2–3).

Adapting to this perspective is not easy, but it is worthwhile. Trials can help shape us into the character of Christ. Trials can also teach us difficult lessons about ourselves that we might not learn any other way.

Setbacks have an upside; they fuel new dreams.

Dara Torres

When surrounded by the ashes of all that I once cherished, despite my best efforts I can find no room to be thankful. But standing there amidst endless ash I must remember that although the ashes surround me, God surrounds the ashes. And once that realization settles upon me, I am what I thought I could never be ... I am thankful for ashes.

Craig D. Lounsbrough

It’s not how far you fall, it’s how high you bounce that counts.

Zig Ziglar

For Further Reflection

Psalm 27:1; Ezra 4:1–24; Romans 8:28

Today’s Prayer

God, my foresight is so limited. While my situation may look bleak, help me to remember that you have a plan you are working out for your glory and my betterment. Amen.