Thursday, January 19

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017

Today, we read about Joseph's betrayal at the hands of his brothers and his subsequent turns as a servant to a wealthy Egyptian merchant and as Pharaoh's prisoner.  From these events, which likely transpired over the period of at least five years, we see great changes in Joseph and his preparation for the service that God targeted for him.

As a 17-year-old, Joseph shares an audacious dream about his family's bowing down before him.  Perhaps he may have reveled too much in this promise because his brothers and father both rebuke him.  Undeterred, Joseph seemed secure in being his father's favorite son, demonstrated through his richly ornamented coat.

His brothers sought revenge against him, however, and they found their opportunity when Joseph joined them in Dothan, away from the protection of his home environment.  Though they wanted to kill him, they end up negotiating his sale to Midianite merchants.  He then becomes Potiphar's servant.

Because of his submittedness to God's will, even after this unfortunate change of scenery, Joseph brings blessing to Potiphar's home.  Still, he faces yet another enemy in Potiphar's wife, who falsely accuses him of sexual assault.  Given his low status, Joseph has no opportunity to defend himself, and he becomes a prisoner in Pharaoh's lockup.

Again, Joseph's administrative excellence become a blessing for the warden.  He rightly forecasts the background of Pharaoh's chief cupbearer and baker, but the cupbearer forgets Joseph for a period of two years!  Then, Joseph receives a great opportunity:  an audience with Pharaoh himself to address a series of puzzling dreams.

Joseph's servanthood in Potiphar's house and the prison brought about some transformation in the young man.  He became a "man for others," and his experiences genuinely prepared him for what would come.  Clearly, he might have struggled to see the purpose of these experiences in real time, but we may look back and perceive God's sovereign and good plan to save many lives.

In our lives, how do we handle failures, frustrations, and detours?  Without considering God's perspective, these events just lead to anger, as our expectations are dashed.  From a godly perspective, however, we see how God never wastes these moments, in order to refine us and prepare us for His plans and purposes.

What failures, tough situations, or detours has God used in your life?  How could you trust Him today for those circumstances that bring frustration?

Lord God, thank You for Your amazing plans for our lives.  Thank You for the example of Your servant Joseph and how his story gives us courage for today.  Prepare us for Your purposes, and give us grace to experience joy and peace wherever You have placed us.  We love You and give You our lives.  In Jesus's Name, amen.