Gen 35 to 37 “Even what God hates He can use for His purposes”

Abraham’s family tree reveals several sordid traits: favoritism, jealousy, envy, and hatred. It began with Abraham, who fathered Ishmael and begged God to make him his legacy, but God told him that Isaac would be the blessing. Isaac’s twin sons were a test from God. Would he remember God’s covenant? It seems not so. He sought to circumvent God’s plans as he tried to bless Esau, who, as we remember, sold his birthright for a pot of stew. Then we saw how Jacob chose to deceive his father. Later, Jacob’s sons were jealous and envious and hated their younger brother, Joseph. The apple falls not far from the tree, they say. 🙁

Take a page out of this diary to learn what the book of Proverbs says: God hates: haughty eyes, lying tongues, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift to run to evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who spreads discord among family members. [Prov 6:16-20].

Yet, even in that, God used Joseph to bless these men: “you meant to harm me, but God intended it for a good purpose so that he could preserve the lives of many people.” [Gen 50:20] Remember this: “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” [Rom 8:28]

Where have you seen this principle in your own life?