19But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 21So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them. (Genesis 50:19-21)
Thoughts: Joseph was a man of great patience and perseverance. He went through many a trial. But he also had a good combination of wisdom and trust. He was wise enough to trust in God, and also wise enough to use the gifts God gave him.
Joseph persevered and kept his faith though he was thrown by his own brothers into a hole, threatened with death, and sold into slavery. It would be easy to give up the faith when you are in another place with no support. God raised him up and Joseph used his wisdom to be a leader in Potiphar's house. Yet he was falsely accused. Again, he could have blamed God. Instead Joseph kept his faith in God Even in prison, Joseph's leadership skills came to the fore and he interpreted dreams for the Pharaoh's servants. God raised Joseph up three times- the last time as head over all of Egypt- the mightiest country in the world at that time.
Joseph had three prevailing characteristics that we need to be aware his perseverance, his wisdom, and his trust in God. IN the midst of the difficulties of life- the sickness, the death, the sins- we should not give up our help and trust in God but persevere using the wisdom God gives us.
Prayer: Lord, help me to persevere with trust and wisdom as we face the horrors of life.
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