"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 Do you feel misunderstood and forsaken by the people you love? Have you been falsely accused and stripped of everything, without a dime to your name? Is your life messed up? Maybe today is the day you hit rock-bottom and you wonder if you can ever rise again.
Joseph, who was sold by his brothers into slavery (Genesis 37:28), went through all these experiences and emotions. Still, he was conscious that God was in it with him every step of the way. Though his life was a mess, he believed that it was not an accident. Though the things that were happening to him were not good, he believed that God was making all things work together for his good. And it was indeed so, for Joseph eventually rose to the most powerful position in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh. (Genesis 41:40)
Probably, this consciousness that God was in it with him was the reason he forgave his brothers when they came back later in his life to seek his forgiveness. Joseph told them, “But now, do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life.” Genesis 45:5
So like Joseph, whatever you are facing now, be conscious that God is in it with you. For when you are Jesus-conscious, though you may have nothing or not much now, you have everything when you have Jesus!
The same Jesus who went around enriching others with 12 baskets full of leftovers, a net-breaking, boat-sinking load of fishes, and who never impoverished anybody, will empower you to prosper and succeed in life. The same Jesus who went about doing good will cause good to explode in your life. The same Jesus who went about healing the sick and never giving anyone disease will keep you in divine health and protect you from harm.
Because “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” Hebrews 13:8, as He was with Joseph, He is with you. And He will empower you to live the high life — the abundant life in which you will see all of God’s promises manifest!
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8 comments:
Joseph is one of my favourite Bible person. His perseverance,forgiving attitude and integrity is just amzaing.
Pia, have you slimmed down?
I went to your multiply site.
The cakes are so delicious =P
Please take very good care of yourself, lieve zus =)
Great post Pia. I was so inspired by it. Romans 8:28 is one of the verses I am holding on to, to tide me over the difficult times in my life. The other is Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths." I honestly feel that all Christians will be stripped of all hope and strength if they do not have God's promises to hold on to. After all, we are all pilgrims in this evil world where we are subjected to so much persecutions and trials. Thanks for giving me my daily faith, hope and love vitamins for the day. God bless and have a blessed and Spirit filled day.
I'm glad you are encouraged :)
amrita: it is amazing. when i think about what his brothers have done to him, it's amazing how he reacted. i mean, i wish i could be like him - very forgiving.
audrey: i guess i did. i mean i have to because if not, i won't fit into my clothes and i don't have extra budget to buy new ones right now. haha!
mel: i like that verse too. you know, if i don't have God's promises to hold on to, i won't be here anymore - posting. i probably have long been six feet under. sometimes, things get so crazy around here that i'd wish i was already dead, but God says otherwise. He gave me hope and a promise. God bless you, mel.
toni: i am and so does the others. thanks, toni.
God bless you, my friend!
Beautiful and very encouraging, Pia! Just what I needed this morning.
Blessings,
Renie
david: God bless you too, friend.
renie: glad it encouraged you too.
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