Phrases such as, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions,” gives “good intentions” a bad connotation. “At least they had good intentions” usually isn’t a compliment. But good deeds begin primarily with a heart and mind set on doing God’s will. Despite the evil crime Joseph’s brothers committed by selling Joseph into slavery, the Lord intended it for Israel’s deliverance.

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.

Genesis 50:20

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10) Intend to do good this holiday season by planning acts of kindness; carry through with your intentions. How can you use your talents, abilities and possessions to help someone? Holidays are often stressful. An extra dose of patience and kindness might be all a person needs to get them through the day.

Pray to the Lord that, like He did with Joseph and Israel, He will turn the bad things in your life and in this nation for the good. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” (James 1:17)

Recommended Reading: Luke 6:37-49