We’ve all had moments that felt like the end when pain swallowed hope, betrayal cut deep, and life seemed stacked against us. In these moments, it’s tempting to believe evil has won. But Scripture gives us a profound reminder: “What the enemy meant for evil, God meant for good.” (Genesis 50:20)
This promise isn’t just poetic. It’s a battle cry. It’s the ultimate comeback story for anyone who’s been hurt, broken, or abandoned. This article will explore what this verse means, how it applies to our lives, and how God transforms the darkest evil into radiant good.
Genesis 50:20
The phrase originates from the life of Joseph in the Old Testament. Betrayed by his own brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned, Joseph had every reason to believe he was forsaken.
Yet, in Genesis 50:20, Joseph tells his brothers:
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”
This isn’t just about Joseph forgiving his brothers, it’s about recognizing God’s sovereign hand in the midst of human wickedness.
The Devil’s Agenda
Let’s not sugarcoat this: evil is real. The Bible teaches that Satan is a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). His playbook is simple:
- Destroy dreams and purpose (John 10:10)
- Deceive minds with lies (John 8:44)
- Divide relationships and communities
From Job’s suffering to Judas’ betrayal of Jesus, Scripture is full of examples of the enemy using painful, strategic attacks to derail God’s people.
But here’s the twist: Satan always overplays his hand. What he intends for destruction becomes the setup for God’s glory.
God’s Redemption Blueprint
God doesn’t just fix what’s broken, He repurposes it.
Joseph’s Story
Joseph’s journey began in betrayal and ended in salvation, not just for himself but for an entire nation during a famine. The evil his brothers did? God used it to save lives.
Jesus on the Cross
Nowhere is this clearer than in the crucifixion. Satan orchestrated betrayal, injustice, and brutal death. But what he didn’t expect was resurrection. The cross, the devil’s weapon, became God’s bridge to salvation for humanity.
What This Means for You
You may be in the middle of your story. The pain may not yet make sense. But Scripture promises that:
“All things work together for good to those who love God…” (Romans 8:28)
Here’s how to live that out:
Hold On in the Hard Middle
Between the pit and the palace is the process. Joseph was imprisoned for years. Trust is choosing to believe God is still working, even when nothing looks like redemption yet.
Reframe the Battle
Ask: “What could God be developing in me through this?” Is He:
- Deepening your faith?
- Developing compassion?
- Shaping your calling?
Pain is often the soil where purpose grows.
Use the Pain to Help Others
Your scars can become someone else’s survival guide. Joseph saved Egypt. Paul used prison to write letters that shaped Christianity. You, too, can turn your wounds into weapons of healing.
Verses That Support God Turning Evil to Good
Here are powerful Scriptures that echo this theme:
- Romans 8:28 – “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.”
- 2 Corinthians 4:17 – “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory.”
- Isaiah 61:3 – “To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes.”
- John 16:33 – “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Modern Testimonies
From Addiction to Advocacy
Many who once battled addiction are now leading recovery ministries. The same pit that almost killed them became the pulpit from which they preached.
From Abuse to Advocacy
Survivors of domestic violence or trauma often become counselors, authors, or mentors. The pain didn’t disappear, but it was transformed.
God’s pattern hasn’t changed: Evil tries to destroy. God uses it to restore.
Common Misunderstandings
Let’s clarify a few things:
God Doesn’t Cause Evil
God is not the author of evil. He permits free will, which includes the capacity for sin and suffering. But he is never surprised or outmaneuvered.
Good Doesn’t Always Mean Comfortable
“Good” in God’s view often involves character, growth, and kingdom impact, not just ease or comfort.
We Don’t Always See the Good Right Away
Joseph waited over 13 years. You may wait months, years, or even decades, but God doesn’t waste pain.
How to Respond When Facing Evil
Pray With Purpose
Don’t just ask “why”, ask “what now, Lord?” Invite God to repurpose the pain.
Stay in Scripture
When the enemy attacks, your weapon is the truth. Read Psalms, Romans 8, and Joseph’s story in Genesis 37–50.
Surround Yourself With Faith-Builders
You need people who will remind you: “God is still writing your story.”
Declare God’s Promises Out Loud
Speak life over your situation. Proclaim Genesis 50:20 even if your heart still aches.
Satan’s Defeat Is Inevitable
Ultimately, Satan’s defeat is already written. Revelation 20:10 promises his end. Until then, he throws tantrums to slow God’s people down.
But every time God takes an evil situation and redeems it, it’s another nail in Satan’s coffin.
Conclusion
The pain you’ve walked through? The betrayal, the loss, the failure? It doesn’t define you. It refines you.
What the devil meant to bury you, God will use to build you.
The very area the enemy attacked may be the arena where you shine the brightest. Don’t give up. Don’t quit in the middle of the story. Remember:
“You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good…” (Genesis 50:20)
And if God meant it for good, it will be good.