Finding Peace In The Storm
Thursday, April 18
Genesis 39:21-23 (NKJV)
“But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him mercy, and He gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph’s hand all the prisoners who were in the prison; whatever they did there, it was his doing. The keeper of the prison did not look into anything that was under Joseph's Authority, because the LORD was with him; and whatever he did, the LORD made it prosper.”
Devoción
The world throws storms our way – job loss, illness, betrayal, unfair situations. In these moments, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, to want to fight back, complain, or murmur in frustration. After all, we live in an era where standing up for our rights seems ingrained.
But Genesis 39:21-23 offers a different perspective. Here, Joseph, a young man falsely accused, finds himself not just in slavery but imprisoned. Yet, the verse tells us, "the Lord was with him" (Genesis 39:21). Joseph didn't have control over his circumstances but held onto his faith.
Here's a deeper look at how Joseph's story applies to us:
- Just like Joseph, we may feel trapped in life's storms. But remember, our location does not limit God's presence. He is with us always, offering strength and comfort even amid hardship.
- While fighting for what's right can be important, murmuring and complaining ultimately takes our focus away from God. He reminds us through scripture (Psalm 46:1), "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." He promises to be with us, to guide us through the storm, and to ultimately work things out for our good (Romans 8:28).
- Joseph found favor not by fighting the system but by remaining faithful to God. He focused on his character, using his abilities to serve with integrity. As the passage says, "The Lord showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden" (Genesis 39:21). True favor often comes from trusting God's plan and living according to His principles.
- Joseph didn't try to control the situation. He surrendered his circumstances to God and continued living according to God's will. This doesn't mean giving up hope; it means placing our trust in God and seeking His guidance through prayer and reflection.
Remember, God's favor is not a result of our actions but a gift of His grace. By holding onto faith and living according to His will, we can experience peace and hope, even when the storms rage around us.
Oración de hoy
Querido Padre Celestial,
Thank You for the example of Joseph focusing on pleasing You rather than improving his treatment or circumstances. I confess my focus has often been on my situation and comfort rather than seeking first Your kingdom and Your righteousness. Show me in practical ways each day how to crucify my flesh and my own desires and to seek Your kingdom. Bring me correction when I prioritize my own peace and safety. I invite Your correction through Your Holy Spirit, through Your Word, and through brothers and sisters in Jesus. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Aplíquelo hoy mismo
We read about Joseph and may tend to view ourselves in his shoes. Let us also be aware of others who are persecuted for living for Jesus. Let us not be like the men Joseph helped while he was in prison, who promised to put in a good word with the king but then forgot him. Do you know someone in this situation? Consider how you can pray for them, support them, help them through their storm.
Recursos:
- As we pass through hard times, it is still possible to have a positive attitude full of expectation. As you watch, ”The Power of Expectation,” find encouragement for those rough patches.
- Read and memorize Philippians 4:4-7, and a draw from its inspiration during times of trial.