Saturday, January 20
Trust God no matter what
Scripture: Genesis 39-40, Luke 20
Observation
Joseph experienced a horrible run of setbacks.
First, his brothers sell him into slavery in Egypt—hard to imagine the emotional impact of that betrayal!
Next, Potiphar’s wife frames him for attempted rape; she was angry that he had refused her advances; Potiphar unjustly imprisons him. So unfair!
Then, after correctly interpreting the dreams of Pharaoh’s baker and cupbearer, Joseph is quickly forgotten by the restored cupbearer and left in prison. Hope crushed.
Through it all, the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in all he did, and favor with those in charge.
How was Joseph able to withstand one setback and disappointment after another? It was more than grit. He was sustained by God. He kept trusting God despite the setbacks.
Application
How do we withstand life’s hardships, setbacks, injustices and disappointment? By deep trust in God. That’s the lesson of Joseph’s life. Keep trusting God no matter what.
Let those hardships drive you closer to God, not farther away. Like Joseph, believe that God is at work even when it seems like He’s forgotten you! Run to Him, not away from Him.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for sustaining me through all kinds of ups and downs. Help me in every difficulty to run to You, not away from You.