He
called for a famine on the land of Canaan, cutting off its food
supply. Then he sent someone to Egypt ahead of them – Joseph, who
was sold as a slave. They bruised his feet with fetters and placed
his neck in an iron collar. Until the time came to fulfill his
dreams, the Lord tested Joseph's character. Then Pharaoh sent for him
and set him free; the ruler of the nation opened his prison door.
Joseph was put in charge of all the king's household; he became ruler
over all the king's possession. He could instruct the king's aides as
he pleased and teach the king's advisers. Psalm 105: 16-22 NLT
I
have never considered Joseph's trials as being ways of God testing
Joseph's character. But when you think about it, it makes perfect
sense. Joseph was the spoiled son and at the same time the one chosen
to save all his family. God gave him an understanding of what he
would become and Joseph bragged about it to his family. God then
humiliated Joseph, making him into a slave. Even when he was a
trusted servant, God still wanted to make sure he would come through
with integrity. He did but was rewarded by being placed in prison.
God never abandoned him and God helped him succeed wherever he was.
However, he needed to learn the lessons of humility, leadership and
dependance on God. He would never have done so as the favored son
back in Canaan.
Are
you going through a trial in your life right now?
Or
have you ever been through a trial?
What
lessons can you learn or what lessons did you learn? Do you think God
is testing your character?
God,
I know you love me. I also know you want me to be the best I can be.
I understand you may test me and place obstacles in my path – not
for me to fail but for me to become stronger. Please help me through
these times, Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Copyright
2012 Amelia G. Sims
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