"The LORD was with Joseph so that he prospered..." ~Genesis 39:2
My, is that little Joseph? He has certainly grown up well. Joseph was not only
"well-built and handsome" [38:6] he was also very successful in everything he did. This young man had changed from a soft, somewhat-spoiled, immature youth into a man of integrity.
"The LORD was with Joseph" and Joseph was in captivity--two forces that would make him stronger. Hardship and humility can do a mighty work in any one's life. 1. Hardship builds us up rather than tearing us down if we keep in mind that the Lord is with us. He sees us and quite often this is when we see God at work most clearly. 2. Humility keeps our minds in the most optimum position for growth. Joseph humbled himself to God's ways as seen when he responds to temptation with,
"How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” [39:9] Two forces, one external, one internal, working together to bring about the change God desires. Like Joseph, we can also be 'well-built'--stronger in the Lord and his ways-- and 'handsome'-- attracting those around us to the hope we find in God-- if we allow hardship and humility do their work. And God will take care of the successes.
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. The LORD works out everything to its proper end..." ~Proverbs 16:4
No comments:
Post a Comment