When Things Head South

SCRIPTURE Gen. 39:22-23 Before long, the warden put Joseph in charge of all the other prisoners and over everything that happened in the prison. 23 The warden had no more worries, because Joseph took care of everything. The Lord was with him and caused everything he did to succeed.

OBSERVATION As Christians, we often think that when things go badly, from our perspective, that God has abandoned us, that we are no longer in His plan. Notice the situation with Joseph. He served his brothers and was sold as a slave as a result. He gave his all serving his Egyptian master and was accused of rape and thrown in prison. Still in prison he served and, as the above verses show, was blessed.

We need to see that no matter what happens God is working out His plan in our lives. Joseph was called to rule in the greatest empire on earth and God was preparing him. He could not have known that. He could not have known that God needed him in prison to meet the king's servants. What He did know, what we need to know, is that if we stay faithful, no matter what is happening, God is at work.

APPLICATION/CONFESSION When I face setbacks all I want is out--and as quickly as possible!! In the midst of my difficulties, I need to see God's grace at work to train me, to prepare me to be who and what He has called me to be. Greater things are just around the corner. My job is to remain faithful not resentful.

PRAYER Dear God, I am such a wimp. I complain so easily and want to give up so often. Help me to see that it is all a part of your grace to prepare me for what you have for me. I want to be ready no matter what you have in mind. I submit to your work of preparation.