
One of the most important needs for anyone is to be comforted, especially in difficult times. David speaks of this in Psalm 23:4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. [1] It isn’t only small children who need to be comforted, every human, no matter the age, needs it. When we know that our Good Shepherd Jesus is with us, it gives us comfort and strength to move forward. Our enemy, satan, always wants to isolate us, or to make us think we are alone. A person who feels they must handle life on their own is more easily defeated then a person who knows God is with them.
Joseph was sold as a slave in Egypt to Potiphar, who was Captain of the Guard for Pharaoh. Joseph was in a desperate situation, but during that, God was with him. Genesis 29:2 The Lord was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master. 3 Potiphar noticed this and realized that the Lord was with Joseph, giving him success in everything he did. 4 This pleased Potiphar, so he soon made Joseph his personal attendant. He put him in charge of his entire household and everything he owned.[2]
What does this tell us about God? Everyone else may abandon us, but God is always with us. God was with Joseph. The last thing Jesus promised the disciples before He ascended into heaven was, Matthew 28:20 “And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [3] Last words are significant. Why would Jesus promise to be with the disciples? Jesus knew what was ahead for the disciples. Jesus knew they needed to know He was with them. If they knew Jesus was with them, they would be able to keep going in tough times. The presence of the Lord would give them hope, just as it can give us hope.
Joseph was in prison, but the Lord was with him and blessed him. When Joseph needed the Lord the most, He was right there as He always had been. God does not abandon us when things go out of control or I am having a difficult time. If you are struggling today remember the Lord is with you. The Lord wants to bless you. The Lord is listening to your prayers. The Lord wants to speak to you through His word and the Holy Spirit.
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https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/hope-when-falsely-accused
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Ps 23:4). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.