Genesis 39:20–23 ‘The LORD was with him. He showed him kindness…’ (v21)

Today we find Joseph at his lowest. Rock bottom used to be at the bottom of a pit and then sold as a slave, but today we find Joseph in prison for something he did not do. This is a far cry from the days of grandeur with his ornate coat. What we need to notice here is that the Lord showed Joseph kindness in prison. You might think that kindness would be releasing him from prison or not even allowing him to be there in the first place.

Later we will see how God’s good plans will be worked out but, for now, we see God’s sustaining grace lavished upon Joseph in his darkest moment. Once again, we do not find Joseph complaining but, dare it be said, prospering. Even in this difficult place, Joseph blessed others – the warden was able to relax about the things in Joseph’s care. What helped Joseph to be a blessing even when he was suffering?

It’s all about attitude and faith. He kept his eyes on the Lord, not the scale of the problem. In the New Testament we see Peter walking on the water with Jesus, and only starting to sink when he focuses on the waves and not Jesus. When we find ourselves in difficulty, where is our focus? On the problem or on the Lord?

prayer-to-make-icon

A Prayer To Make:
‘Lord, in times of need help me not to look at the problem, but to keep my eyes on You, knowing that You are able to meet all my needs. Amen.’

An Action To Take:
Learn a scripture that will help you to keep trusting in God in the difficult times.

Scripture To Consider:
Ps. 9:7–10, 22:1–5 & 119:27–30; Matt. 14:22–32; 2 Cor. 12:7–10

Micha Jazz is Director of Resources at Waverley Abbey, UK.