The Bigger Picture

                  Photo by @thelettererph 

Reading Joseph's story today made me think about his father Jacob and want to put myself in his shoes. All those years not aware of the truth, not knowing he was deceived, believing some ferocious animal had devoured his 17 y.o favourite son.

I kept imagining Jacob, who was renamed Israel. The one who wrestled with God for a blessing, whose life was changed. Who served God and we know him for ''the God of Jacob'' every night praying, i wonder the things He'd say to God and ask. Out of sorrow I'd say: ''How could You let this happen.'' I can see Jacob having to face the pain of a tragedy, unresolved grief and unanswered prayers. Isn't that how we feel in different seasons of life?

But it made me realise, if God had told Jacob that Joseph was alive, and was sold to slavery, went to prison, suffered injustice and betrayal of his brothers, how would Jacob feel and what would he do?

I'd go after my son and do anything to stop his suffering, but then God's dream to Joseph and purpose wouldn't have been accomplished. Joseph wouldn't have saved many lives from a famine, nor interpret Pharaoh's dream and Pharaoh wouldn't have put him in charge of the whole land of Egypt, he wouldn't have had his relationship with his brothers healed and seen the justice of God.

It all worked out for the good. God had a plan all along. Going through a valley might feel like walking towards ruins, but might be the way to God's promises and faithfulness. 

When you are in the worst case scenario of your faith, struggles and pain, God is working in you, molding you into the person He wants you to be for the purpose he has for you. You're getting stronger even not seeing it yet. You're walking towards victory even not seeing it yet.

Walk and trust.

🦋🤍

''You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.''

Genesis 50:20

''Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?''

Matthew 16: 24-26