by J. Randal Matheny

"Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good, in order to preserve a numerous people, as he is doing today" (Genesis 50:20, NRSV).

The picture appeared on the front page of the Jundiai newspaper. A simple poster glued to a light post. The article criticized at length the visual pollution created by people who went about town sticking handbills to everything that didn't move.

Never mind that the city government permitted posters on light posts.

The handbill condemned by the newspaper?

The School of the Bible, sponsored by the Jundiai congregation, offering theology courses (as an evangelistic outreach). With a telephone number in large letters.

With that negative exposure, the School of the Bible never had so many people call asking about the course, and it turned out with a record enrollment.

What man meant for harm, God intended for good.

Fear not what man may do to you. God will use it for the good of the Kingdom. If you are watching out for his interests, your difficulties and sufferings will be his opportunities.

"We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).