But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.

~ Genesis 45:7 NIV

Once, I flew to San Diego to visit my daughter. Peering out the window, I marveled at how tiny everything looked from such an altitude. Buildings, cars, and trees appeared like miniature replicas. I enjoyed a high perspective.

When I think of living down on earth, I’m ashamed to think about how my anger, pride, competitiveness, and unforgiveness can sometimes puff up in unattractive arrogance.

I wonder if God laughs at my puffed-up attitude. Often, I am humbled that He chooses to love and forgive me despite my pride, fear, and attempts to control.

Joseph’s story shows a parallel of how God watched over the patriarchal family. God had a grand view in mind when He made a covenant with Abraham and promised his descendants’ salvation. He knew Abraham’s people would struggle during a long, difficult famine. In love, God sent Joseph ahead to save his family.

Joseph’s character changed by learning God’s high perspective. God did this by permitting Joseph’s suffering. Joseph endured hatred from his jealous brothers. They mercilessly dropped him in a pit and remained tone-deaf to his cries for help. Although Joseph was sold into slavery, separated, and abandoned, God was with him and made him succeed. That was all in God’s plan.

Later, Potiphar’s wife taunted and tempted Joseph until he finally fled. Yet, Potiphar imprisoned him after his wife unjustly accused Joseph. Joseph suffered years of unpleasant physical conditions. Additionally, God allowed him to interpret the baker and cupbearer’s dreams, only to again be forgotten. I wonder if Joseph ever questioned God.

God, however, remained with Joseph and gave him success. Finally, Joseph’s imprisonment abruptly halted when he used his God-given wisdom to interpret Pharoah’s dreams about the future. Joseph gave God the glory and glorified Joseph’s position to save his family from the coming famine.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while will himself restore you and make you strong firm and steadfast.

 ~ 1 Peter 5:10 NIV

 

What you are going through may be devastating. Yet, it is pretty small in light of eternity and God’s high perspective. Perhaps it’s even miniature compared to fleshing out God’s work of salvation in you to others. Devote yourself to prayer with thanksgiving. Remember, God is with you.

Reflect on what might seem unfair in your life. Ask God to cultivate wise, Joseph-like character in you.

Lord, You are loving and powerful. You never make a mistake. Thank You for Your faithfulness to the family of God through generations. Help me trust You in my current struggles.

 

Genre: Non-fiction

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