Recently, while my wife and daughter were out of town for a soccer tournament, my 8-year-old came to my room in the middle of the night wide awake and visibly shaken. After experiencing a less-than-pleasant dream, he found it difficult to return to the land of slumber from which he came. We made several attempts to remedy the situation, but it wasn’t until I allowed him to relocate to my room that he finally found the peace he needed to fall asleep once again. He simply just needed to know that I was with him.
As we read about Joseph in the book of Genesis, we see a life of many ups and downs. Something terrible happens to Joseph. He makes the most of the situation and experiences a certain level of success. Then something terrible happens again and the cycle continues. Most of us know this cycle very well. Just when things are going well, or we are sleeping soundly in our beds, something tragic happens and causes us to be shaken with fear and uncertainty.
There is a phrase that is used several times in Genesis as we travel the rough terrain with Joseph. “The Lord was with Joseph.” We quickly realize that were the Lord not with Joseph, his story would be even shorter and much more tragic. If Joseph were a professional athlete, he might be known as the “Come-back Kid.” Just when you think he is down for the count, he bounces back stronger. This was not due to some internal strength he saved for special occasions. He did not succeed because he found the magic formula for how to survive an unjust circumstance. Joseph’s story is great because “the Lord was with him.” The presence of God made everything possible. The presence of God made peace, redemption, and even success possible.
What has shaken you lately? What is it that is causing your stomach to churn in uncomfortable ways? What are you worried about? Once my son realized I was with him, he was able to sleep in peace. I dare say, if that is possible, how much more peace is there in knowing that the Almighty is with you?
Pause today for a few moments and realize the Lord is with you and ponder why that makes a difference.
Rev. Christopher Hall, Jacksonville, Fla.
Extended Scripture: Genesis 37-39
