God Allows What He Hates

"Sometimes God allows what He hates to accomplish what He loves" (Joni Eareckson Tada)

I read this quote this morning and it got me to thinking of many biblical examples.

The flood led to the rescue of Noah and his family.

The confusion of languages caused the spread of the peoples around the world.

Joseph being sold into slavery led to the survival of the nation of Israel.

Four-hundred years of slavery fostered the growth of the nation from 70 to over a million.

Daniel being taken captive to Babylon led to his ministry in the royal court.

David being hunted by Saul prepared him for battles and ruling.

The crucifixion led to our salvation.

You can probably think of more.

And since God hasn't changed, He still may work in the same way in our lives today.

That cancer that you're fighting might give you opportunities to witness, opportunities to grow in dependence on the Lord, or more.

The divorce might draw you closer to the Lord in dependence on Him and develop compassion for others.

The rebellious child will help you understand that heartbreak that you cause God when you rebel against Him, making you more sensitive to the gravity of sin in your life.

So often we think of the trials of life to be a punishment, or just fate. When we begin to think of how God can use those trials to bring glory to Himself and growth to us, then we can make progress.