TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

DEVOTIONAL

by Sandra Chua

My youngest daughter and I used to make up stories before bedtime. She would always be the main character. Of course, whatever twists there are in the plot, everything would always go fine for her because I, as the storyteller, have her favor. 

Joseph had the master storyteller on his side. The Lord, the Sovereign God, was with Joseph. As verse 2 says, that is the reason why he prospered. Potiphar also realized and saw that God was with him. That made him entrust more and more responsibilities to Joseph. 

I want to note a few things about Joseph’s success. First, it was not all rosy. God did not spare him from the heartache and terror of being sold as a slave. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he was also falsely accused and thrown into prison. Second, all the success was due to God’s presence in his life. Third, people around him were able to see that presence.

So what does this teach us? God can work together for good whatever trouble we are in, but that does not mean we will be trouble-free. James 1:2-3 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Additionally, 1 Peter 4:12 “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange was happening to you.”

REFLECTION

How does knowing God is sovereign over all that happens to you give you peace of mind? Where can I ask for help in times of trouble, which the Bible says would surely come? How does knowing that everything has a purpose and that whatever happens is not just random occurrences give you hope? How does Joseph’s life give you inspiration and desire God’s presence more?

PRAYER