Reading

• Gen. 39:1-42:5

Devotional

After Joseph got to Egypt he was purchased by Potiphar, captain of the Egyptian guard. He served faithfully in Potiphar’s house and over time Potiphar trusted him because GOD blessed Joseph and everything he did prospered. No doubt Joseph wondered why GOD allowed him to suffer in slavery even though he had done nothing wrong. He probably wondered whether he would have to live there for the rest of his life. Yet he kept on obeying GOD and serving his master, regardless of his situation.

Potiphar’s wife was attracted to Joseph and in time she tried to get Joseph to sin against GOD, but Joseph ran away. Then Potiphar’s wife lied to Potiphar, saying that it was Joseph that tried to get her to sin. Potiphar believed his wife, got angry with Joseph and threw him in prison. Once again, Joseph was made to suffer just for obeying GOD. And once again GOD blessed Joseph.

GOD is all-wise. He knows everything all at the same time, and without having to “think hard” like you and I do to remember things sometimes. He is also everywhere at the same time. The Bible says GOD’s presence fills the heavens and the earth. Therefore GOD always knows exactly what is happening with you, to you, and inside you. He knows your thoughts, your intentions and your heart.

GOD has given His children a special promise:

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
(Rom. 8:28)

Sometimes GOD allows us to suffer because He wants to teach us a lesson. Other times He allows us to suffer for some length of time because He has a plan for us or to use us in a special way as a blessing for others. That’s what GOD did with Joseph. Our job is to:

1. Keep trusting in GOD, regardless of what happens to me, remembering that He loves me greatly, and that He has a plan for me.
2. Pray for GOD to use me in whatever way He sees fit, to His glory not mine.
3. Always obey GOD, regardless of what happens to me.
4. Rest my mind knowing that He will take care of me.

Trusting and obeying GOD always pays off!