Today’s reading: Genesis 39:1-41:36
Joseph is an exemplary figure when it comes to steadiness in the midst of trials and prosperity. His circumstances fluctuated wildly from extreme prosperity to desperate straits. He went from being his father’s favorite to being in danger of death at the hands of his brothers. He was a slave, a trusted servant of Potiphar, a prisoner, and the second to Pharaoh of Egypt.
Through all of that he did not waiver in his faithfulness to the Lord. He is to be admired, but, certainly, it was God who gave him grace and strength to endure and, in the end, to serve as the deliverer of his family from famine and possible death.
I often ask myself, “which is harder to endure, want or plenty, failures or victories? In which circumstance am I most severely tested and tempted to be unfaithful to the Lord?” It always seems to me that having plenty is more dangerous than having little.
How about you? Are you more susceptible to temptation in times of prosperity or in times of need?
NOTE: Your thoughtful comments and respectful criticisms are welcome below. Please allow a day or two for approval to see your reply on line.
[For more reflections on today’s passage see the January 15 reading in Cover to Cover: Through the Bible in 365 days].
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