We are all familiar with the story of Joseph: The 17 year old who was sold as a slave in Egypt and became the second most power man in the most powerful nation at the time.
The life and experience of Joseph is found in Genesis 27-50. At first we learn that a huge injustice was committed against Joseph when his own jealous brothers betrayed him and sold him as a slave to Egypt. This was not the last time Joseph was unjustly treated. Wrongly accused of impropriety, he was sent to jail for several years.
Throughout these difficult times the Lord blessed him and made him successful. As a slave he was placed in charge of his masters' household. As a prisoner he was placed in charge of the prison. When released from prison he was made governor over all of Egypt and given charge over preparations for the coming famine.
We learn of Joseph's understanding of theology and God's sovereignty in chapter 45 when Joseph reveals himself to his brothers. "God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to keep you alive by a great deliverance." (45:7)
Joseph reveals his confidence in the Lord again in chapter 50, years later when again addressing his brothers: "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive." (50:20)
The same is true for us as Christians today. We can have confidence that God is sovereign and is working all things together for good (Rom. 8:28). This does not eliminate the pain of trials, injustice, or any difficulty we experience but knowing this will provide comfort, assurance, and will sustain us.
It is through these experiences that God will sanctify us and make us more like Christ (see James 1:2-4). Our desire as Christians should be for spiritual growth. Many times we even pray that God would change us to be more like Him.
How do you respond to trials or difficulties? Can you say with Joseph that God meant it for good? Does your speech and actions during these times reflect your theology (your understanding of God and His word)? Can your friends and family say that your faith and trust in our sovereign God is just as strong during difficulties as it is when life is "good"?
Is life currently good or easy right now? What can you do to strengthen your faith? Can you prepare for those trials before they inevitably arrive?
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