My favorite class this semester is a class on the book of Genesis taught by Dr. Andrew Schmutzer. Recently we have been studying the life of Joseph. Joseph had everything going against him:
- He was thrown into a cistern by his own brothers (37:25)
- He was sold into slavery (37:27)
- He was taken into a whole new culture (39:1)
- Once a slave, he was surrounded by temptation. He was asked by Potiphar’s wife to sleep with him, not just once but “day after day” (v.10). He could have justified agreeing to this in countless ways
- He was put in prison unfairly
- After he helped the cupbearer by interpreting his dream the cupbearer forgot about him for 2 whole years (40:23)
How would I respond if this was my story as an 18 year old? Four different times it says that the Lord was with Joseph. I wonder if Joseph felt that. I wonder if Joseph felt like God was on his side.
Joseph had every reason to be angry with God and not submit to Him. Yet every time Joseph spoke he brought in God even though the culture he was in could have cared less about his God (40:8, 41:16).
Throughout this journey there have been times when I have wondered if God was really with us. Eleven months feels like a really long time and yet Joseph struggled for over 2 years before God rescued him to accomplish His purpose and save Egypt and the surrounding nations from severe famine.
Even when it was hard, even when it was extremely hard Joseph didn’t make excuses. He remained faithful and obedient with God at the focus. Although I pray that this journey doesn’t last another year I know we must trust. God is working out his purpose and like Mom says, it is never too late for God’s suddenly. We keep praying, asking for reduced pain for Mom and strength and encouragement for all, knowing that NOTHING can separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:38).
Love, Olivia
What a sweet heart you have Olivia! Thanks for the reminder this morning that our God is near and will not leave us no matter what!! May God bless you more than you can stand today!! Love to you!
My dear Olivia, your heart reflects the very real substance of suffering! Thank you for being openly honest! Eleven months is eleven months! Joseph is an excellent example of someone who did “everything right” yet paid a huge price, straining to see God in the midst of such injustice! Another was Jesus Christ, as He willingly laid aside glory and became our perfect Lamb, taking away our grievous sins on Himself and making us blameless! Incredible sacrifice! Hate that you are hurting! Hate that your mother is hurting! Hate that your family is hurting! Love that He is with us ALWAYS! Eyes always fixed on Him, the Author and Perfecter of our faith! Trusting, even when nothing makes sense! Love you, sweetheart!