Having a Right Perspective on Life
Seeing Life Through God’s Eyes: Finding Purpose in Pain
Have you ever felt like your life was a mess of random, painful events? Like a Jackson Pollock painting that makes no sense up close? What if I told you there’s a way to step back and see the masterpiece God is creating through your struggles? Finding purpose in pain is possible if you look closely.
In our recent journey through Genesis, we’ve witnessed Joseph’s remarkable life unfold. From being sold into slavery by his own brothers to becoming the second-in-command of Egypt, Joseph’s story is a powerful testament to God’s providence. Today, let’s explore how we can develop Joseph’s perspective and see God’s hand even in our darkest moments, finding purpose in pain along the way.
The Art of Divine Perspective
Imagine looking at a piece of art that appears to be nothing but chaotic lines and shapes. But when you view it from the right angle, suddenly a beautiful image emerges. This is called anamorphic art, and it’s a perfect metaphor for how we often see our lives versus how God sees them. Recognizing purpose in pain is essential for understanding this perspective.
Joseph’s life looked like a disaster from many angles – betrayal, false accusations, imprisonment. But from God’s perspective, every event was a brushstroke in a magnificent plan to save lives and fulfill His promises.
So how can we cultivate this divine perspective in our own lives? Let’s look at three key principles from Joseph’s example.
1. Trust God When Others Wrong You
When Joseph’s brothers came to him, fearing retribution for their past evil deeds, Joseph’s response was remarkable:
“But Joseph said to them, ‘Do not fear, for am I in the place of God?'” (Genesis 50:19)
Joseph understood a crucial truth – vengeance belongs to God alone. As Romans 12:19 reminds us, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'” In trusting God, Joseph found purpose in pain.
When others hurt us, it’s tempting to seek revenge or wallow in bitterness. But Joseph shows us a better way – trusting that God sees every injustice and will handle it in His perfect timing and wisdom.
2. See God’s Hand at Work in Man’s Evil Actions
Perhaps the most powerful statement in this passage is Joseph’s response to his brothers:
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20)
Joseph didn’t deny the evil intentions of his brothers. But he saw beyond their actions to God’s greater purpose. This is the heart of divine perspective – recognizing that God can use even the worst circumstances for ultimate good, finding purpose in pain.
Think about the seemingly random events in Joseph’s life:
- Thrown into a cistern by his brothers
- Sold to Midianite traders
- Falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife
- Forgotten in prison by the cupbearer
Each of these “coincidences” was precisely timed by God to put Joseph in the right place at the right time to save countless lives during a severe famine.
3. Render Good for Evil
Joseph didn’t just forgive his brothers; he went above and beyond:
“So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones. Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.” (Genesis 50:21)
This echoes Jesus’ teachings in Luke 6:27-28: “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.”
When we truly grasp God’s perspective, we’re empowered not just to endure pain, but to overcome it and become a blessing to others – even those who have hurt us.
Putting It Into Practice
So how can we apply these truths to our own lives? Here are some practical steps:
- Identify your “brothers” – Who has hurt you that you need to forgive and trust God with?
- Look for God’s hand – In your current struggles, ask God to show you how He might be working for good.
- Choose kindness – Think of one way you can show love to someone who has wronged you this week.
Remember, as the poem “The Weaver” reminds us:
“Not till the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Will God unroll the canvas
And reveal the reason why.”
Trust that God is weaving a beautiful tapestry with your life, even when all you can see are the tangled threads underneath. By adopting His perspective, you’ll find purpose in your pain and the strength to overcome life’s greatest challenges.
The Gospel According To Genesis
God’s Sovereign Hand In The Future Of His People
Looking Four Ways Before You Go
Faithful Leadership in a Foreign Land
Faith, Fulfillment, and the Road Ahead
Reunion and Redemption
We hope you enjoyed the sermon and would love to see you in person. Plan your visit to Community Baptist Church in Spring Hill, Tennessee today!