God’s providence never ceases to amaze me. But God doesn’t only provide for our material needs, he also provides for our physical, spiritual and mental growth. This is easily overlooked because not only are material blessings tangible but it’s also the need we often pray about. While the internal work God does in us is harder to see especially when they’re forged in the fires of hardship. Thinking about how God is working in us is generally the last thought on anyone’s mind when they’re going through trials. Yet setbacks, heartaches and failures are the very teachers God uses to prepare and equip us. I was reminded of this while reading the story of Joseph.
Joseph’s story
Joseph was the 11th son (out of 12) born to Jacob. He was his father’s favorite and his father didn’t hold back in showing his favoritism (Gen 37:3). His brothers, however; hated him so much that they were going to kill him, literally (Gen 37:18-20).
In the end, they opted to sell their brother to a group of Ishmaelite traders instead of murdering him (Gen 37:26-28). I’m not sure if Joseph prayed to be delivered from his circumstances. But I do know he begged and pleaded with his brothers to save his life (Gen 42:21). To be sold into slavery by your older brothers, the ones who were supposed to protect and keep you from harm was the ultimate betrayal. Joseph found himself defenseless and alone in a foreign country.
He didn’t know being in Egypt was a strategic move by God. From his perspective, it was one setback after another. He went from being his father’s favorite and living a privileged life to being a slave in a foreign land. He went from being special to invisible, from wearing a coat of many colors to dressing in a humble linen kilt. Then when circumstances looked like they were beginning to change and hope was on the horizon, things got worse. He was thrown in jail for a crime he didn’t commit.
What always intrigues me about Jospeh’s story is his attitude and behavior. He didn’t use his setbacks as an excuse to live in the shadow of his past. He could’ve been bitter, angry and resentful about his circumstances – anyone hearing his story would certainly empathize. But he didn’t let those negative emotions cloud his vision.
He didn’t view his life from the lens of what it should’ve been. Joseph had every right to play the victim card, but he didn’t. Neither did he pursue vindication or leave honesty and integrity at the door while waiting for justice. Instead, he worked hard and served God faithfully regardless of where he was.
Joseph had no idea there was going to be a famine so severe that it would affect Egypt and the surrounding areas. But God did and He was making a way for people to survive and Joseph was key to His plan. God was preparing and training Joseph; honing his skills so that one day he would be in charge of the entire land of Egypt (Gen 41:41). And to get to there Joseph had to leave his home, become a slave and go to prison.
What I’m learning
God’s providence isn’t relegated to only meeting our material needs. He also works in us, strengthening what needs to be strengthened and removing what needs to be removed so that we are ready to face whatever comes our way.
From our perspective, it may look like we’re getting hit with one obstacle after another. But it’s important to remember: you are where you need to be, continue to do what you need to do. God’s preparing you to become who you were meant to be. Trust Him as He trains and equips you with everything you need to accomplish the task He has for you.
“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Rom 8:28 NLT