By Ginny Jensen
Shelter in Place can mean very different things for people. Some live in mansions, small homes, or on the street. Joseph had several places during his lifetime. He lived in his family home until his brothers threw him into a pit. From there, he traveled with traders and was sold as a slave. The extremes of his lodging went from prison to the king’s palace.
Imagine how disruptive life would have been for Joseph. Consider the unmet dreams for his life. We may wonder, during those years of captivity, if he thought about the unfulfilled dreams he had as a boy? He interpreted dreams for the baker, the cupbearer, and the king that became reality. Yet, his dream of ruling over his family seemed an impossibility.
- Does the thought of life becoming more normal seem like it will never happen?
- Will COVID-19 ever be controlled?
- What hopes and dreams have we held on to for a long time with no answer from the Lord?
Though there is no record of how Joseph waited, when he reveals himself to his brothers, we get a glimpse into Joseph’s mind and heart. He said, “God sent me before you to preserve life.” Joseph had waited on the Lord.
Waiting is a difficult discipline. We can become anxious in the process. It instills a sustaining hope; produces trust in His timing; and promises that God’s perspective is good.
Practice waiting with a heart trusting in Him.
“Biblically, waiting is not just something we have to do until we get what we want. Waiting is part of the process of becoming what God wants us to be.” – John Ortberg
Lord, I will watch in hope for You. I will wait for You my Savior; You will hear me. (Micah 7:7)
Shelter in Place Devotional Series:
(Header Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay)