Joseph's life has taken a dramatic turn as we get to Genesis 41:37-57. He's no longer in prison but is now second in command in all of Egypt. Is God amazing or what? As Joseph is running Egypt, he also starts his family and we see that he and his wife have two sons. Joseph names them Manasseh and Ephraim and continues to honor God with the names he selects. It was the meaning of those names that touched my heart as I read today, and particularly the definition of Ephraim. "'For God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction.'" This really got me thinking about how just because I may not be thrilled with my situation (I may even be hurting and feeling miserable) that doesn't mean God isn't using me in and through that situation for His purposes. Bottom line--we're called to be fruitful wherever we're at.
So where do you find yourself today? In a good spot, in affliction or somewhere in between? Whatever the case, how can you be fruitful in it? Tami W.
Fruitful...Wherever
When we understand God's goodness and love towards us, we can know that, even in those times when we're hurting, He is working in an through us for our good and His glory. Our responsibility is to persevere and continue living our lives for Him as best we know how, even through the difficulties. If scripture shows us anything, it's that God uses hurting, afflicted people. Joseph's a great example of that.
I cannot say that I am in a good spot because of all the personal things I have to deal with. But one thing I do know and that is
God has been and is and always will be faithful. I still struggle with trust but even with that God has and will always be faithful. If I can be of an encouragement today to someone, I will promise you this God is faithful. You may not get what you want but God will give you what you need, and all you need to do is trust Him and put your faith in Him. He is real and not a fairy tale. Give God a chance and see what He will do for you.
I really needed to read this today. I am definitely in a "Why am I here?" place in my life and instead of thinking about going somewhere else, I realize I should focus on what I should be doing here. Joseph didn't spend his time thinking about what God could do for him, he focused on what he could do for the glory of God and was able to build a good life out of a bad situation.