ON GOD’S PLAN
Today’s Verse: “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” Genesis 50:20, ESV
Theme: Surrendering your life, plans, and resources allows God to accomplish His plans and purposes.
A ROUGH START
At a young age, Joseph was faced with many challenges. He was hated, sold into slavery, and then imprisoned in Egypt. Even when he was living right and honoring God, things went wrong. Forces beyond his control left him stuck in prison for longer than was necessary, even though God was still working in and through him. All the dreams God had given him as a young man? Those had to be surrendered back to God. At least for a time, his life and his plans were all at the mercy of someone else.
WHAT GOD WAS DOING
During these years, Joseph matured in his faith. His pride was stripped from him. He longed for his father and younger brother. He learned not only to dream dreams, but to interpret them. God was in the intricate twists and turns of Joseph’s life and fortunes. He just had to admit only God was in control. Only God knew his future. Only God knew what a difference Joseph would make in so many people’s lives.
Make It Personal: Just as Joseph surrendered his life and plans, there is a point where we must surrender ours. Have you done that yet? Maybe your dream is a God-given dream. Still the timing is up to Him. Seek to surrender yourself to God this week and see what will happen.
Pray: Father, I make my own plans all the time. Help me to be open to Your plans. Help me to surrender my dreams and plans. Yours are so much better. Your plans have eternal value. You have a purpose for me, much more than getting my tasks done. Help me to hear Your voice. In Your Name I pray, amen.
Read: Genesis 37, Genesis 40
Memory Verse of the Week: “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done." Luke 22:42 (NIV)