The Lord is with You

There are a few names that deserve greater recognition because of their impact on world history. In fact, Joseph’s faith in God helped change the course of human history.

When Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, none of them knew what God had planned for Joseph’s future. But God did. When Joseph rose to authority over all of Egypt, none of them knew that his plan for rationing food and resources would save civilization from starvation. But God did. When Joseph revealed himself to his brothers and his father, Jacob, none of them knew that they would be enslaved and later delivered by Moses into the Promised Land. But God did. You see, God takes all of what appears to be evil and uses it for His purposes and for His glory. In Genesis 39:2, we are told that “the Lord was with Joseph.” Despite your present circumstances, the Lord is with you, too.

Very often we become internally focused on our problems, our situations, or our own complaints. We become so blinded to the world around us that we forget that God, the Creator of the universe, is actually the one in charge. It is He who controls our circumstances. It is His purpose that is at work in and through our situation. Rarely is our present condition really about us. It’s all about God. Joseph knew that and had unwavering faith in God through some of the toughest seasons in his life. Because of Joseph’s faith and obedience to God, the nation of Israel flourished in Egypt. Israel’s preservation under Joseph’s watchful care ultimately provided for our preservation through the coming of Jesus Christ and the salvation made available through Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.

At the end of my life, I pray that I am remembered not for the good works I performed in the name of Jesus Christ but for the faith I have shown in Christ Himself. Like Joseph, our works demonstrate our faith in God even in the most difficult times. I pray that my life, despite my circumstances, points people back to Christ so that others may also choose the gift of salvation and be reconciled to the Father.

Questions for Thought

1. Have you been falsely accused? Have circumstances in your life made you feel abandoned and alone? What do you need (Mark 10:51)? Have you told Jesus what you need?
2. Are you carrying around burdens you were never meant to carry? Confess your need. Confess your sin. Be free. Read 1 John 1:8-9. Joseph could have wallowed in the pit of the palace, but he chose instead to allow his faith to strengthen him. Unburden yourself of doubt, fear, and self-condemnation. Live in the freedom of Christ (John 8:36).
3. Does peace seem to elude you? Trust in the Lord (Isaiah 26:3-4).

Child Connection Questions

God works through people to do His work in communities and the world. How can God use your child and your family to help accomplish God’s plan? Journal three ways your family can help your community or neighborhood.

Challenge

Can you see beyond your present circumstances and yet remain faithful to God? Look for God’s hand at work through your situation to affect a legacy of hope and salvation for others.