4/9 Genesis 39 to 41

Sisters and Brothers,

This coming Friday is our first Bible study for the Easter season. Genesis 39 to 41 fits well to this churchcal calendar.

As we are reading this part of Genesis, we see Joseph was just a slave when he arrived in Egypt. But soon, he began to have a successful career. The promise that God gave to Abraham reflects on Joseph.

However, the road to success is not without ups and downs. Even though God is with Joseph, God still put all the possible tests to Joseph.

Coming to Egypt as a slave, Joseph was doing well at Potiphar's house. But not very long, life took a turn. Potiphar's wife lied to accuse Joseph raped her and him to jail.

While in jail, the chief jailer put Joseph in charge. We clearly see how God put Joseph in test as well as his blessing on him. And during the jail time, there was an opportunity or Joseph to get out. For Joseph had foretold Pharaoh's chief cupbearer's release and hoping he would help Joseph. But nothing happen. That was a big setback for Joseph and would have been devastated for most of the people.

But the story really tells God's mysterious plan. Instead of letting Joseph out easily, God had him stay in jail for two more years. For God is setting up the stage for Joseph to interpreted Pharaoh's dream. That interpretation eventually raised Joseph out of the jail and became famous in Egypt.

This is a wonderful story and gives us a perfect example of God's plan. He will put us to test before he pour down his blessing. When we in distress or whatever low point in life, God is with us. And we never know what kind of tests he will put us thorough before his next assignment. Unlike Jesus, he know the next step. However, he was also gone through the suffering of died on the cross before raised on high.

Let's be faithful and accept God's assignment, for good and bad. For he knows our destiny and we are his people.

in Christ,
Dan