After Jacob’s death, Joseph’s brothers were afraid that Joseph would take revenge. They sent messengers to Joseph instead of speaking to him directly. Joseph was able to forgive his brethren because his theology was correct. He saw the hand of God in his life. He understood that God’s thoughts towards His children are always for their good.

1. God’s thoughts are not our thoughts

Joseph knew he was just a mere man when he said, “…am I in the place of God?” (Gen 50:19). God is sovereign and is in control of all things. God is omniscient and knows all things. Man cannot understand what is infinite as our minds are finite. God’s wisdom is infinite. We must realize that we cannot control the future.

2. God’s thoughts are full of love and grace

God worked for good despite the evil of sinful men. God used Joseph’s brothers in His plan to bring Joseph to Egypt. God’s thoughts are for our good always. We may not always see how things can unfold for our good, but God will work it for good. In times of afflictions, we need to remember that God is our God. He is in control and He designs all things for our good always. We need to trust God.

3. God’s thoughts for good are for His purposes

God’s thoughts are the unfolding of His will for us. God is all powerful and is able to bring His will to pass. Whatever happens in our life, it is never by accident. God is bringing it to pass. This is our source of strength in prayer. As a Christian, we cannot fall outside of God’s will. God has a good plan for us.

Let us remember that God’s thoughts toward us are always for our good and thus we must humbly submit to His will for us.