And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose – Romans 8:28
Ishmaels are those moments when clarity becomes obscured by desperation, delays, and panic, and the single option seems the only right option. It is followed by an emotional hangover of regret and future concerns, until a comforting voice assures that Ishmaels are factored into God’s plan of grace and mercy, where nothing is wasted.
In Bishop TD Jakes’s “Nothing Just Happens,” he describes that God’s plans are irrevocable, regardless of personal mistakes or malicious acts by others. This is perfectly demonstrated by what Joseph experienced at the hands of his brothers and eloquently explained to them: “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” (Genesis 50:20).
While Ishmaels may stem from unsound and hasty decisions or wrongful acts by others, they don’t have the power to thwart God’s divine plan. We can be assured that no matter where we are in life, we don’t have to live in a state of regret. But we can instead trust Romans 8:28 in “all things.”