Joseph's and Saul's

Lately I've been reading about Joseph in Genesis and so much about his story is sticking out to me. From the time his story of struggle begins with his brothers, we see God's hand over, in and through it. "The Lord was with him" is stated three times alone in Genesis 39.  Then as I read on in the following chapters.... Joseph's moment comes -- after two full years, chapter 41 tells us. {But don't forget chapter 40 where it begins with "some time later," so we know he's already spent a while in the prison before he's joined by the company of the cupbearer and baker. Then they get out. Well, one does anyway.} Then two full years later, Joseph has his time with the Pharaoh. Remember how God was with him? Well, good thing He hadn't forsaken Joseph, because in Genesis 41:38-40, Pharaoh lifts Joseph up to such a high place, second only to himself in all of Egypt!! What amazes me about this was that this pagan Pharoah is able to recognize the Holy Spirit within Joseph. And despite all this fame and fortune he's about to get (by the age of 30, mind you!), Joseph still honors the God of his fathers. In vs 51-52 he names his children Manasseh and Ephraim, names meaning God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father's household, and God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering, respectively.

Now, the story is not over. As you know the best part of Joseph's story is one of forgiveness. But I'll let you go read that on your own :)

I've also been reading through Acts in a Monday night Bible study, and on Tuesday I read ahead with a friend. It's the best! Right now we're only in the early parts, which are my favorite: the early church, Stephen, Saul. Ok, Saul wasn't the best example, but he makes for a great story. Peter and Stephen are great examples.

The thing both of these stories seem to have in common which I find applicable right now are suffering. It's amazing yet not surprising that God knew how His word would stand time and be applicable always. Yes, even the Old Testament, first book.  Reading about Joseph's journey I think about the people who are enduring hardships and how God does not forsake us.  I realize that Joseph was betrayed by his family, not for religious reasons, and that it worked out really well for him, but isn't that what God's word promises us (Romans 8:28)? Even if it ends up like the case of Stephen (Acts 7:54-8:3) there is good when God's glory is spread like wildfire!

I look to the east and I am praying for Saul's. For their hearts to soon see the glory of God. The enemy has no idea what is right around the corner from this tragedy. But I also pray for the Joseph's. For those that have been wrongfully captured for far too long. But we know they are not being held a day longer than the Lord's will, because just at the right moment, they will see their time come, for His purpose.