There are stories in the Bible that reflect on individuals going through difficulties. One such story revolves around Joseph. To reach his destiny, Joseph encountered betrayal, temptation, slander, and wrongful imprisonment. Despite these challenges, he came out on top. Joseph recognized a truth that we all need to recognize as well: God knows what we are going through, and he cares. The story of Joseph repeats a key phrase five times: “but the Lord was with Joseph.” Is it not a blessing to know that God is with us no matter what we are going through?
When we recognize the power of God is with us during times of difficulties, we can feel some reassurance that no matter how daunting the challenge, God will be with us. Know that you are not facing your journey in life alone. God gives all of us the freedom to choose how we will react to our circumstances. Will we have faith that we can overcome our circumstances, or will there be doubt? Will there be joy, or will there be despair? Will we have patience or impatience? Say to yourself, I will make it through my difficulties and believe it with all your heart and soul.
The prophet Jeremiah relays a comforting message from God: “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” While this is not an immediate rescue from hardship, it is a powerful assurance of God’s constant presence beside us, even in tough times.
When we examine our lives’ many events, we may see how God reveals his plan for our lives by lining up circumstances in visible ways. God does not plan our mistakes or our miseries. He is our guide, helping us navigate difficulties and providing encouragement and hope so that we can overcome troubling circumstances.
However, when we choose to ignore what’s right, God won’t force his will on us. Sometimes we bring problems on ourselves and then blame others for our troubles. Whatever the case might be, we should have faith that God will guide us through our circumstances.
So, when you are going through difficulties as Joseph did, remember that no matter what you do, if it is not God’s plan, you can’t benefit from it. Do not forget that God is there, and his plan is more beautiful than our desire. Be blessed and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Dr. Walter Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
