By Bishop Ricks
Sermon Notes: "God’s Goodness"
Foundational Text: Genesis 50:20
Scripture Reference:
Genesis 50:18-21 (KJV)
Genesis 50:18 - Joseph’s brothers bow before him and acknowledge themselves as his servants.
Genesis 50:19 - Joseph reassures them, reminding them that he is not in the place of God.
Genesis 50:20 - Joseph highlights how their intended evil was used by God for good, to save many lives.
Genesis 50:21 - Joseph comforts them, promising to provide for them and their families.
Points of Deliverance
1. What Is Good?
God’s Definition of Goodness
Human intentions may be flawed, but God’s purpose is always good (Genesis 50:20).
God's goodness isn’t defined by circumstances; it transcends our understanding.
Goodness is not simply about pleasant or favorable conditions but about God’s divine plan, often bringing redemption and restoration in unexpected ways.
Biblical Examples of God’s Goodness in Difficulty
Joseph’s life: His suffering led to the saving of many lives.
Jesus’ sacrifice: The greatest act of goodness—God turned the evil of the cross into the salvation of the world.
Our Understanding of Goodness
Goodness in our lives is often God’s way of working out His plans for a greater purpose, even when we don’t see it immediately.
2. Why Is God Good?
God’s Character
Goodness is intrinsic to who God is. Psalm 34:8 says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
His goodness is unchanging and faithful, even in times of hardship. God doesn’t just do good things; He is good. This is an aspect of His nature.
Purpose of His Goodness
God’s goodness brings hope, healing, and redemption.
It ensures that even the worst situations can be turned for His glory and the good of those who trust Him (Romans 8:28).
God’s Goodness in Our Lives
Through provision: Like Joseph nourished his brothers, God provides for our physical and spiritual needs.
Through protection: God keeps us safe, even from what we cannot see.
Through grace and mercy: His goodness leads us to repentance and transformation.
3. When Is God Good?
At All Times
God’s goodness is constant, regardless of circumstances. In good times and bad, God remains faithful.
Joseph’s story reminds us that even in trials, God is working for the good of those who love Him.
In Every Season of Life
Whether we are experiencing abundance or lack, success or failure, God’s goodness is present.
In moments of betrayal, disappointment, or uncertainty, we can trust that God is weaving these experiences into a greater good.
4. Our Response to God’s Goodness
Reflect God’s Goodness to Others
As recipients of God’s goodness, we are called to show goodness to others.
Joseph extended grace and kindness to his brothers, even though they had wronged him. We are called to do the same, showing love, compassion, and mercy.
Be Instruments of God’s Goodness
We are called to be “good” as a reflection of God’s character.
This goodness manifests in our actions, words, and attitudes toward others, showing kindness, forgiveness, and generosity.
Conclusion
God's goodness is woven through every situation, even when we face hardship. Just as Joseph’s brothers intended evil against him, God used it for good. His goodness is unchanging, and as we experience His goodness, we are called to reflect it in our lives by being good to others. God is always working for the good of His people, and we are invited to be part of that work by extending His goodness to those around us. Let us trust in God’s good plans and be instruments of His goodness every day.
Key Verse to Meditate On: Genesis 50:20 - "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive."
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