Dealing with Delay

 So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. (Genesis 45:8)

One of the Bible’s great examples of patience is Joseph, who was sold to slave traders by his jealous brothers, falsely accused by his employer’s wife, and imprisoned in Egypt. “But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him” (Genesis 39:20–21). Years later, when Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, he was made second in command in Egypt (ch. 41).

The most remarkable fruit of his patience occurred when his brothers came to buy grain during a famine. “I am your brother Joseph,” he told them, “the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. . . . So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God”  (45:4–5, 8).

In all our delays, brief or long, may we, like Joseph, gain patience, perspective, and peace as we trust in the Lord.

Father in heaven, in all of our delays may we trust Your faithful hand of guidance and experience Your presence with us in every situation. Amen.

When I read this devotion it blessed me and I wanted to share it with you today.  No matter what your facing, no matter what sort of week you’ve had, He has been present with you in every situation. Keep your head held high and take on today knowing He is right by your side guiding you despite what it may look like, trust Him. Don’t get angry and impatient with those who you feel may have messed things up or done you wrong, trust that God is working all things out for your good and for His plan towards a greater purpose for your life. Confidence in God enables us to live out our faith patiently. Delays are not defeats!

Have a beautiful day in The Lord!

Today’s Reading is Genesis 45:1-8