The verse that comes closest to the sentiment "What Satan intended for evil, God used for good" is found in
Genesis 50:20.
Here's the verse:
"As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today." (ESV)
Context: This verse is spoken by Joseph to his brothers after the death of their father, Jacob. Joseph's brothers had sold him into slavery in Egypt years before. Joseph, through God's grace, rose to a position of power in Egypt. Due to a famine, Joseph's family came to Egypt for food and Joseph revealed himself to them. Joseph understands that while his brothers acted out of malice and hate to harm him, God used their evil act to save many people from starvation.
Why it's relevant:
* Evil Intent: Joseph acknowledges the evil intentions of his brothers.
* God's Sovereignty: He recognizes that God had a purpose and a plan that was ultimately good. God used the evil actions of others to accomplish that good purpose.
* The bigger picture: The consequence of their actions had huge implications for the survival of his family and many others.
It's important to note that while this is the *closest* verse, it doesn't explicitly mention Satan. However, many theologians and Christians understand that Satan is the ultimate instigator of evil in the world. Therefore, while Joseph's brothers were the immediate perpetrators of the evil act, the principle that God can overrule and redeem evil intentions for good is often applied to the broader context of Satan's influence as well. It highlights God's ultimate power and control over all things, even evil.
Important Considerations:
* This verse and concept should not be used to excuse evil or say that evil is inherently good. Evil is still evil, and people are responsible for their actions.
* The idea is that God is powerful enough to work even within situations of evil to bring about a greater good, according to His own purposes and timeline. We might not always see or understand how God is working in a particular situation, but we can trust that He is.
While Genesis 50:20 does not explicitly mention Satan, it contains the core principle that many associate with the idea of God using what was intended for evil for good.