Chance, Choice, or Sovereignty?

“And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life…So it was not you who sent me here, but God…” Genesis 45:5, 8a 

We have a choice in how to view our lives. Some subscribe to the idea of chance. This view believes that there is no rhyme or reason to life’s events. Things happen by chance, or luck. This mindset breeds superstition. Breaking a mirror will give you seven years of bad luck. Always avoid black cats, opening an umbrella indoors, and walking under a ladder. Make lots of wishes, but don’t tell anyone or they won’t come true. And always pick up pennies and four-leaf clovers.

Then, there is the belief that we choose our own destiny. Life is what we make of it. Choices dictate what happens to us. This mindset can lead to crippling fear. To think that one wrong choice could ruin everything…can you imagine?

Joseph, however, discovered the biblical view of life. Amidst terribly hard and trying circumstances, betrayal, and struggle, he learned that it is God who controlled what happened to him. Because of this, he was able to truly forgive those who wronged him. Joseph knew that it was not his brothers, but God who sent him to Egypt. In His sovereignty, God sent Joseph ahead to preserve a remnant in Israel.

Who but God could have known that a famine would come? Who but God could have given Pharaoh dreams foretelling the famine? Who but God could have given Joseph the ability to interpret those dreams? Joseph chose to see God’s hand at work. He chose to believe that it was God leading and guiding, directing each and every step.

What about you? Do you believe in chance, choice, or the sovereign hand of God? Are you able to forgive…or is your heart racked with bitterness, superstition, or fear? God has a plan for your life. And in His sovereignty, He will use everything that happens to you for your good and His glory.

Father, please help me to trust You no matter what happens in my life. I know You are in control and that nothing happens by chance. In Jesus’ name, amen.