Never in my life have I seen so much trouble around me, and in turn, never in my life have I prayed so much. God is absolutely using this season of sorrow and challenges to teach and mold me to be more like his son. Our Lord Jesus, born king, yet held onto nothing of this world, lived each day of his ministry pouring out everything he had for those who would eventually betray him. If anyone had a reason to complain, it was him, and yet so often I find myself frustrated over circumstances that not too long from now will be absolutely meaningless.
Through this time and from some recent reading, I know this to be true: The more I let go of the things of this world and hence place my trust in Jesus, the more peace I have. The headline verse (Isaiah 26:3) was part of a daily reading plan influenced by a brother in Christ, at just the right time for it to land on my troubled soul. I’m writing these things to you today because I want you to have the same peace and share that peace (Jesus) with your friends, family, and colleagues.
In today’s reading (Genesis 49-50 and Galatians 4), Joseph acknowledges the hardships and betrayal he faced as a victory for the kingdom of God. This attempt at evil turned out for good and we can experience this same exchange.
You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. (Genesis 50:20)
The enemy wants us down and out. The enemy wants us to worry and focus on problems and therefore reduce our dependence on God. This vicious cycle robs us of joy; it leads me to guilt because in my worries there have been times I’ve not been the loving father, husband, brother, son, and friend that God made me to become. However, the thing is, the enemy’s plan ultimately fails because Jesus won that battle. The enemy tries to pull us away, and when we stand firm in Christ Jesus, we are part of the victory when we draw even nearer to God. What a beautiful thing, what a beautiful name: Jesus.
Whatever you’re worried about today, let it go. Bring it to the altar, watch it burn, and let the joy return.