Arrival in Egypt

View daily reading plan: Genesis 39.1-2

He was now a slave in an alien land, the property of a military man who was the head of Pharaoh’s guards. However, in his new and difficult circumstances he had this consolation, “the Lord was with Joseph” (v.2). Joseph was not unique in this.  Let us all be encouraged that, even in trying circumstances, “he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Heb 13.5).
 
God’s presence not only consoled Joseph but also ensured the success of his activities.  We too need the presence of the Lord. We need His presence domestically as when “he was in the house” at Capernaum (Mk 2.1). We need His presence industrially as when Boaz greeted his reapers, “The Lord be with you” (Ruth 2.4). We need His presence evangelically as when the gospel triumphed at Antioch because “the hand of the Lord was with them” (Acts 11.21). We need His presence congregationally as when He promised, “there am I in the midst of them” (Mt 18.20).
 
By loving him and keeping His words, we can create the moral and spiritual conditions whereby He will happily abide with us (Jn 14.23). That presence will provide the consolation that we need in days of stress, and the courage that we need in days of service.

Tuesday, 6 February, 2024