6 February 6, 2021
But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. Genesis 39:21 ESV
I cannot imagine the extent of Joseph’s sorrow. His brothers vend him to slave traders who then sell him to an Egyptian dignitary. Working hard and being faithful to his master, God granted Joseph favor, and he was promoted to head servant. Then comes the second setback. Potipher’s wife falsely accuses Joseph of sexual misconduct. This time, Joseph is imprisoned. If this were to happen to me, I would struggle with feelings of abandonment and resentment. Who could blame Joseph if he had to press through similar feelings in his grief? Yet, once again, God redeems Joseph’s misfortune and grants him favor with the warden as he faithfully serves his new master.
While this story once again highlights how God redeems our suffering, it also points us to the sobering reality of how our Suffering Servant encountered unjust treatment. Unlike Joseph, however, Christ died for the sins of his enemies—a humbling perspective when we consider our struggles.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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