Hey y’all, I hope you have been enjoying your week so far. I have been spending much time resting and focusing on self-care, and I hope you have been able to do the same. Lately, I have been reflecting on the sober truth that we cannot blame God for how someone chooses to use their free will. When we enter into relationships, whether romantic, platonic, or spiritual, and experience hurt, it can be easy to turn our questions toward God, asking why He allowed it. The reality is that everyone has free will, and their actions are a reflection of where they are in their heart, mind, and spirit during that season of their life. We live in a fallen world, and the way others choose to show up is not caused by God. However, the Bible does show us that God can use even those who do harm for a greater purpose. For example, God used Pharaoh in order to free the Israelites. This idea of God using evil for good is seen in Genesis 50:20 TPT where Joseph states, “Even though you intended to hurt me, God intended it for good. It was his plan all along, to ensure the survival of many people. So, don’t worry. I myself will provide for you all that you need, both for you and your little ones.”

Everything we go through is not wasted. The abuse, the manipulation, and everything in between will be used for our good. We may not see the good while we are in the middle of the storm, but on the other side of betrayal there is freedom, on the other side of church hurt there is victory, and on the other side of every mountain there is breakthrough and something new, an Exodus to your promised land. What we endure is not just for ourselves, but for the upliftment of others. Through your testimony, chains will be broken, faith will be restored, eyes will be opened, and hard hearts will be softened. God will get the glory through your tests and trials. Continue to hold on.

“So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together for good, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose.”

Romans 8:28 TPT