We are thinking and praying for individuals and families throughout our land and beyond at this time of lockdown. Many have lost loved ones or are suffering health issues. Others are experiencing financial difficulty or stress in isolation.
Often, we have no real idea why we go through different trials and difficulties in our life, only to realise what was happening much later in life.
The man in our story today was such an individual.
Genesis 45 v3-5:
And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence.
And Joseph said unto his brethren, come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt.
Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.
As a youth Joseph had amazing dreams and promises from God. To rule with respect and favour. Yet soon after that it all seemed to go so wrong!
He was sold into slavery, wrongly accused of a crime he did not commit and thrown into prison in a foreign land and seemingly forgotten.
There he experienced enforced isolation. He endured pain and saw people die.
By the time we get to our passage though things are very different. In one day, he went from the prison to the palace. In that place he had gained all the qualities he would need to lead. He was now fluent in the language with life experience too. Most importantly he had learned to rely on God in the difficult times and see Him move to grant him favour.
Having gone through all these things he now declares to his brothers
“God did send me before you to preserve life”
None of us would choose to be in lockdown with all the trials that ensue.
Yet, if used properly you can come through this experience and be really used of The Lord. It starts of course with having a real relationship with God. That comes through faith in His dear Son The Lord Jesus. Thereafter He can mould and shape your life in even the most trying of circumstances.
Much love and blessings - Pastor John and all at GCF