IT'S GONNA BE WORTH IT!

At times when you and I get discouraged, we sometimes wonder if it's worth it, that is our faith walk with Him, it isn't always easy. Well, I have to believe that it is worth it! He directs our steps and we must trust Him. He is our hope! Much of what I'm going to share today is from a devotional called InTouch Ministries. http://www.intouch.org/

"In the Midst of Trials" Genesis 39:6-20

Joseph lost his position in Potiphar's household and went to prison because of the lies of his Master's wife. He had hopes for release from jail but the king's servant forgot his promise to mention him. (Gen 40:14, 23). It had been 13 years and his future looked bleak.

Despite his circumstances, God was carrying out His plan to bless Joseph and benefit his family. God was going to use Joseph to rescue them the coming famine. God used everything that he had done or been through to do this. Joseph knew the Egyptian language and culture. He had developed leadership abilities and matured spiritually.

Joseph learned two things. First, the Lord is faithful and uses our problems or troubles to prepare us for His work. When the time came, Joseph was fully trained and ready to become second-in-command to Pharaoh. The King testified that God's presence was with Joseph.

Second, when the Lord accomplishes His purposes, the difficulty will end. In God's timing Joseph was freed from jail, and rewarded with a high-ranking appointment. He was reconciled with his family even though his boyhood was gone, he was blessed by living in the center of God's will.

Adversity can be painful, but the Lord uses it to further His purposes and equip us to carry out His plan. What is He trying to teach you in the midst of your trials? Ask yourself, "Am I cooperating with Him?" Even Jesus suffered to fulfill His Father's will for mankind. (Matt 16:21).