GENESIS 50:19-21: “But Joseph said to them, “Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? 20 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. 21 So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.” Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.”
OBSERVATION: Does God really work all things together for good toward those who love Him, who are called by His Name (Romans 8:28)? The story of Joseph is a resounding YES and AMEN to this question! Whenever we wonder where the Lord is in our lives as things appear to be going from bad to worse – we can find great comfort and strength in the story of Joseph’s life!
Rejected by his brothers, sold into slavery, betrayed by his employer, forgotten by those he helped – Joseph persevered in faith and trusted God. It looked like the young dreamer of dreams would never see the fulfillment of his vision. Every time things were on the upswing – Joseph would get hit with a major setback. From the son of promise to a slave and then a prisoner. This is not my idea of all things working together for good.
When Jacob died his brothers feared Joseph would act like any king of his day. When a new king took the throne it was commonplace for this new king to kill off all his sibling rivals and those who were part of the former regime. Joseph’s brothers were anticipating this move now that the patriarch of the family, Jacob, was dead. Yet, Joseph did not respond in typical fashion. He responded with grace, forgiveness, and restoration. He responded with tears, love, and promise. Joseph responded as Jesus Christ responds to us when we call upon Him in true repentance – and as we also should respond to those who have despitefully used or hurt us.
How could Joseph have such an attitude? It was because he was the recipient of God’s Great Grace and Mercy. If the Lord was so loving and gracious to Joseph, how could he be any other way to his brothers. Also, Joseph saw the “redeeming hand” of God in ALL of his upturns and downturns. Even the calculated attempts to cause Joseph harm were redeemed. They were not simply redeemed for Joseph – BUT FOR AN ENTIRE NATION, AND FOR HIS ENTIRE FAMILY!
Lord, forgive me when I murmur and complain. Forgive me when I fail to see Your Gracious and Providential Hand leading and caring for my life. Help me to reposition my heart towards You this morning with renewed faith and vitality. Help me to engage in the gifts and challenges ahead with the same grace and mercy that You have poured out on me. In Jesus Name!
