Genesis 39:1-5 Contemporary English Version (CEV)
Yesterday, we read a passage from the gospel of Luke about the feast God has prepared for those who trust him. Jesus is our Feast—the Bread of Life—the One who feeds us and causes us to spiritually flourish in the promises of God.
In our passage from the Old Testament today, Joseph trusts his life to the work of God. He is a good example of one who is spiritually flourishing. Because of his trust in the Lord, Joseph prospers in everything he does. You might say, “Pastor Mary, Joseph was abandoned by his Hebrew brothers, sold into slavery, sent to a foreign country, falsely accused of a crime, and spent years in prison. How is that flourishing?” We must focus on the truth that God had a plan for Joseph’s life and as he trusted God to develop him and reveal Truth—never giving up Hope in God’s salvation even when it made no sense—Joseph became a beacon of the Lord’s love and tasted the promises and provision of God. Joseph humbled himself in obedience to God and at the right time, God raised him up. As we humbly allow Christ—the Word—to feed us Truth that changes our hearts we will prosper, too.
Genesis 39:1-5
1 The Ishmaelites took Joseph to Egypt and sold him to Potiphar, the king’s[a] official in charge of the palace guard. 2-3 So Joseph lived in the home of Potiphar, his Egyptian owner.
Soon Potiphar realized that the Lord was helping Joseph to be successful in whatever he did. 4 Potiphar liked Joseph and made him his personal assistant, putting him in charge of his house and all of his property. 5 Because of Joseph, the Lord began to bless Potiphar’s family and fields.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your reminder from the life and testimony of Joseph. Trusting is hard because I cannot always see what you are doing in my life, but like Joseph I choose to trust you. I know your promise to guide my path is sure. In Jesus’ name. Amen.