Be courageous, and let’s be strong for our people and for the cities of our God. May the LORD do that which seems good to him.
–1 Chronicles 19:13

Joe was born into a dysfunctional family where his dad played favorites and alienated Joe’s siblings.

It didn’t help that he was the favored one who got most of the attention. One day, the others decided it was time to teach their brother that he was not the king of the mountain after all.

When Dad sent Joe out to check on his brothers in the field, they saw their chance and threw him into a deep hole. Calmly eating the lunch prepared for them, they paid no attention to his cries for help. When a group of slave traders came along, the brothers sold Joe into slavery. Devastated at leaving his family and home, Joe faced an incredible and unknown future.

Joe was a godly man in a pagan land, and his determination to obey God and do the right thing actually got him sent to prison.

After two long years there, suddenly his fortune turned and he was released. Soon afterward, he was elevated to a high position in the government. Still, in connection with heaven, he made wise decisions that even saved the lives of his family far away! (Read the whole story in Genesis 37, 39-50.)

Undeterred by his life in prison or in a palace, Joe trusted that God would take care of the outcomes. Trust in God always gives the courage we need.

Prayer

Lord of the Universe, Help me to put my trust in You, the One who makes no mistakes. I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection

When in my life do I most need to trust in God?