The year was 1963. I was a graduating senior in high school and as president of our class I wrote in the year book this simple philosophy of life. “All things work together for good." Today, nearly 40 years later, I want to tell you why I still believe that statement is true.

We catch up with our hero, Joseph, in the waning years of his life. His father is dead. His brothers are feeling guilty and afraid. But this young dreamer has lived too long to be revengeful. He has spent enough time in prison to swallow his pride. In a tearful, touching moment with his brothers he makes this statement concerning their acts of evil. “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good." Will you reflect with me on that statement for a moment?

I. YOU INTENDED TO HARM ME

When I first believed that …