"Word For Today" is a wonderful daily inspirational message written by Australian pastor Bob Gass. You can see more about him and his writings HERE. In New Zealand, his "word" is published in a small free quarterly magazine put out by Rhema, our main Christian Broadcasting station, which contains a special, scripturally-based message for every day of the current three mionths.

Bob's writings are truly inspuirational and his ministry has worldwide impact. His site is well worth visiting because he has authored a number of books and booklets, including collections of his "Word for Today" series.

For the last couple of weeks I have been struggling with a problem which was affecting me as I prepared to attend church on Sunday last. The day before, I was led to read Sunday's Word, and because it meant so much to me, and has such a powerful message for all of us, I am going to take the liberty of quoting it, in the hope that it will help someone else as much as it helped me:

HAVE YOU BEEN WRONGED?

"What do we learn from the story of Joseph?
(1) That when God wants you in a palace nobody can keep you in a pit.
(2) That your future is not in the hands of others, it's in the hands of God.
(3) That your assignment doesn't require the co-operation of everyone else, but it does require the co-operation of one person - you!

"Have others done things that wronged you? Joseph's brothers made the wrong decision in resenting him. Potiphar's wife made the wrong decision in accusing him. The butler made the wrong decision in turning his back on him. But God didn't abandon him! He arranged every step Joseph took, all the way to the throne. After years apart he now stands face to face with those who hurt him and says, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good."

"Try to understand this: the purposes of God will always overcome the plans of men! No-one can prevent God from using you, blessing you and giving you success, except you. So keep your heart and your attitude right! There's a reason for everything. There's also a season. Though you cannot understand it at the moment, stand on what God promised you, recall His faithfulness and trust Him to work things out. He can make the wrong decisions of those around you work for your good. Instead of looking for someone to blame, start seeing the hand of God at work in your situation. Remember what the Bible says: "All that happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into His plans." (Ro 8:28 TLB)" Bob Gass

I was truly humbled and inspired by this message - grateful to God for bringing it to my attention when I most needed it, and grateful to Bob and Rhema for being the earthly vehicles to bring it to all of us. Check out their websites - free copies of the "Word for Today" devotional magazine are available from Rhema.

Blessings

Patricia