God will turn it for good

I grew up in a tough neighborhood in Montréal: Notre-Dame-de-Grâce, or NDG. Some people used to say that it stood for “no blank good.” I’m sure you get the point. Although this area has been gentrified of late, my childhood was marked by many fights, beatings, and a lot of bullying. I was afraid to go to school every day. I didn’t take a school bus because there wasn’t one available, and even when there was, I avoided the ride. 

You see, my last name is Goulet, which sounds a lot like “poulet.” “Poulet” means “chicken” in French. So, torment was a way of life for me. Kids can be cruel, and some neighborhoods can create oppressive environments.

friend, if you experienced abuse or bullying growing up, I’m so sorry. I really can relate. But I believe we can do something about those memories. The Bible tells the story of a young victim of rejection, abuse, and false accusations: Joseph. You’ve probably read his story. It’s far worse than mine, but it does give me hope. He couldn’t change his past, but he could reinterpret it. Joseph noticed a trend in his life: “‘You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.’” (Genesis 50:20, NIV) Bad things happened to Joseph, but God could fix it all.

Genesis 50:20 has helped me live a fearless life because I know that God is good. He’s for you and me. The Apostle Paul came to the same conclusion: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NIV) 

All things are not good. Some things are really bad, but God can and will turn them for your good if you love Him and are called according to His purpose. 

friend, do you love God? I’m sure that you do, so put your trust in Him. Bad things don’t come from God—they come from people, the devil, or a fallen creation. God can use it all for your good because you are His miracle and He’s great.