In the Old Testament we are given an example of one who became better in the midst of difficult circumstances. Genesis 37-41 tells of the life of Joseph and how he goes from being sold into slavery by his own brothers, to being accused of Rape and put in prison, to his rise to become the “Prime Minister” of Egypt. Jacob characterizes his life as one who the “archers bitterly attacked him” in Genesis 49. Yet through all that he endured, there is no hint in Scripture that Joseph was in any way a sinfully bitter man. Joseph faced the bitter circumstances of his life and grew and in and through them. Joseph’s choice was made because he understood something very important, which we see in Genesis 50:19-20 as he addresses the fears of his brothers after his father’s death. “Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? … you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.” In the midst of our bitter circumstances, we have to remember that God has a plan and purpose for allowing these things to come into our lives. We face these circumstances not with a resignation to endure, but with a resolve to excel through the trials of life. Someone once said, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!” Resolve to follow the Lord as you go through life and circumstances, and you will become better not bitter.
