He had sent a man ahead of them—Joseph, who was sold as a slave. —Psalm 105:17
Given the opportunity, no doubt Joseph would have written a different plot for his life. But with each twist and turn of his story, this young man was being shaped and transformed by God.
This young man was “sent ahead” by God to a foreign land where God intended to use him to provide for His people. Once there, in what seemed like a failure of God’s plan, he was sold and shackled as a slave. And in those horrendous circumstances, the “word of the Lord tested him” (Psalm 105:19)—shaped him, honed him—until the time came for God’s predictions through him to be fulfilled.
Taking this message to heart can make a huge difference as you navigate your own challenges. The hardest parts of the story God is writing in your life aren’t random or meaningless. They’re full of purpose. And in due time, all that He has intended for you and for this world will come true. In the meantime, He will always be with you. That’s a truth you can always trust.
Make it Personal
How can knowing that God is working out His purposes for your life according to His timetable assist you in navigating challenges?