Joseph Devotional

Read This: “Now, do not be upset and do not be angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me ahead of you to preserve life! For these past two years there has been famine in the land and for five more years there will be neither plowing nor harvesting. God sent me ahead of you to preserve you on the earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So now, it is not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me an adviser to Pharaoh, lord over all his household, and ruler over all the land of Egypt. Now go up to my father quickly and tell him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says: God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me; do not delay!’” (Genesis 45:5-9)

Think: “It’s not your story; it’s God’s story.” We should wake up every morning reminding ourselves of this truth. It’s so easy to get caught up in trying to control our circumstances to avoid the potential dangers of this world. Joseph wasn’t perfect, but he understood God’s sovereignty and submitted himself to God’s will.

After such lofty dreams, it would’ve been easy to feel cheated by God when he was sold into slavery. If not at that point, surely he had a few doubts by the second time he was thrown in jail. But an eternal, God-centered perspective gave Joseph the strength to be faithful even when the future seemed bleak. He could’ve taken up Potiphar’s wife on her offer, thinking that was the quickest way to be promoted, but refused saying “How could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (39:9). Instead of sulking and feeling sorry for himself in prison, he continued to use his gifts for God’s glory. He had no idea how, when, or even if his visions would become a reality. In the moment, Joseph chose to trust God’s hand in his life and continue to serve and obey in whatever capacity he could.

We don’t always know why bad things happen. Whereas Joseph could look back and see how all the pieces fit together, we may never understand the reasons for our trials. Yet it’s important to keep in mind there’s a bigger picture at play.

When we truly accept and trust God’s sovereignty over, not just our lives, but the whole world, it frees us up to relax and enjoy the ride. We can plan for the future without worrying about it. We can face our problems without being overwhelmed. We can forgive those who’ve hurt us knowing God can use our pain for his glory. God is in control every minute of every day today and always.

Ask: What are some areas you need to submit to God’s control? How can an eternal perspective change the way you live your life today?

Pray: Ask God to help you keep the big picture in mind as you face the big and little trials. Also ask him to help you trust that he is a good God and has a good plan.