When God's Providence Doesn't Make Sense | Dr. Stephen Conley

Text:  Genesis 42 Facing Perilous Circumstances (Gen. 42:1-5) Jacob and his sons face starvation due to a worldwide famine.  Jacob's response proves his lack of trust in God's promises and in his sons' integrity. God's providence can be misunderstood through affliction: God is at work within us, as He uses affliction to draw us into dependance upon Him.   Facing Past Sins (Gen. 42:6-28) As Joseph's brothers come to Egypt to buy food, Joseph tests them in multiple ways to see if they have changed their ways. Joseph's testing awakens and convicts the brothers' consciences.  God's providence in bringing conviction of our sin can be misunderstood: God is working in us, not against us.  Facing Profound Sorrow (Gen. 42:29-38) Joseph's brothers return to Canaan, but have difficult news for their father. Jacob is overwhelmed with sorrow at the prospect of losing another son. God's providence can be misunderstood through adversity: God is at work in us - not against us - through the adversity. Main Idea: God's providence is often misunderstood during adversity, but it is always working according to His wise and gracious purposes for our good.