But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. And the keeper of the prison put Joseph in charge of all the prisoners who were in the prison. Whatever was done there, he (Joseph) was the one who did it. The keeper of the prison paid no attention to anything that was in Joseph’s charge, because the LORD was with him. And whatever he did, the LORD made it succeed. Genesis 39.21-23
When I did not know God’s grace and mercy, I was decrepit, without hope, quite focused on current worries without even a hint of understanding there is an eternity to be considered. I was the self-consumed teen. I was the resentful young adult. I was sometimes distinctly unwelcoming, unkind, boastful, short-cited, and ungrateful. So ungrateful. And I didn’t know those were wrong attitudes and actions toward others. Now when I act that way, the Holy Spirit pricks my own spirit to acknowledge my sinful behavior, repent, and try to do better with the Spirit’s help.
I love how the Lord allows even the cobwebs of my memories to be swept aside as He shows me His pursuit of me when I didn’t even know Who He was! With hindsight, I can see God’s work in and through my life from a long time ago to yesterday. From before I knew anything about Him, God was allowing my path to cross with believers. Their lives looked different than mine. Quiet confidence not in themselves or others but an internal settled confidence no matter circumstances. Sort of like Joseph’s life as viewed by the keeper of the prison – there was something different about how Joseph lived and served, even in prison for false accusations.
It took me many years of being mired down in many personal failures and disappointments before I moved beyond my unease and awkwardness to acknowledge “I think maybe I should go to church and find out about Jesus.”
Now, as a believer, to look back (only a glance, no lingering!) at a challenging time, it is sometimes surprising to see how prevalent the Lord’s presence was during that difficulty. To consider those seasons as God’s work in my life brings humility but also relief, assurance, and hope.
As you likely are already aware, our church is about to embark on a study of the life of Joseph titled God Meant it for Good. I pray each of you will consider participating fully in this undertaking – get a workbook and spend a few minutes in God’s Word daily, be a part of a group of ladies, or a group of men and ladies, who are together considering the power of life-change when orchestrated by God the Father . . . because He means it for good.
Here are next steps . . .
- Sept. 18, Wednesday evening – Women’s Coffee & Conversation 630-8pm Casual gathering to meet others as we consider the faithful adventures in our own lives and the possibilities for connecting weekly this Fall. The coffee bar opens at 6 – your drink is on us. Child care is available if you RSVP to colleen@poulsbocc.com. This is a great place to bring your questions about small group options!
- Sept. 22, Sunday worship – launch of study: God Meant it for Good – 9am & 1030am Pick up your workbook at the coffee bar and start one page a day on Monday, Sept 23
- Sept. 23-28 – join a small group, several to choose from – the list is now available!
See you soon. With love, Colleen