Love Story

January 2008

Talk about abandonment! How would you feel if your eleven brothers planned to throw you down a well? If they changed their minds and sold you as a slave? If they faked your death by bringing “evidence” to your father to “prove” their lie?

When it comes to sibling rivalry, that’s off the chart.

Imagine how Joseph, the victim, felt. Instead of a life of freedom, he was a slave in Egypt. Do you suppose he was angry? Maybe, but he didn’t allow it to destroy his life. Instead, he went on to become a success because he honored God in spite of his circumstances. As a result, “the Lord greatly blessed Joseph there in the home of his master, so that everything he did succeeded.” (Genesis 39:2)

Pray meditatively. Like Joseph, your life may have been derailed. Maybe your mate abandoned his or her marriage vows or a parent deserted you for an addiction. Show your pain to God now; tell Him that you trust Him to turn your sorrow into joy.

Practice God’s love. Joseph’s father, Jacob, played favorites. Instead of treating his sons equally, he doted on Joseph. God, however does not do that. Every believer—including you—is his favorite son or daughter.

The fact that God loves you doesn’t mean you’ll sail to the finish line. Joseph didn’t make it without testing. He was falsely accused of rape and thrown in prison. If you have to live through a crunch like Joseph, that doesn’t mean God has abandon you. Invite Him into the crunch and your life will prosper. You may not become rich or fill a position of political power. But you will be able to redeem your circumstances and bear fruit.

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