Read Psalms 101
Highlights:
A confession of God's justice; thanksgiving to God for His mercy; His mighty power; God's providence over Israel.
Moreover he called for a famine upon the land. . . He sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant . . . the Word of the Lord tried Him (Ps. 105:16-17,19).
The famine occurred in the time of Jacob and forced the people to migrate into Egypt, leaving the land which had been promised to them (Gen. 45 — 46). The Lord caused the famine in order to fulfill His purpose for His chosen people (Ps. 105:6-16). The first thing Jacob did when he heard that his son Joseph was alive, was seek the Lord in prayer (Gen. 46:1-4). Sometimes desperate times will call us to desperate measures. In these situations, it is so important to follow God's direction in your decision making. It was necessary for Jacob to follow the Lord's plan in order to save the nations.
For many years, Joseph may not have understood his unfortunate series of circumstances, so it is said: The Word of the Lord tried him (Ps. 105:19). Just like Joseph, we wonder at times why so many bad things come our way. Remember, God had a purpose for Joseph. The Lord was directing Joseph's movements to get him to a certain place. A place where he could be God's servant and do great things to preserve his family. Eventually, Joseph became the anointed provider whom God had sent to Egypt to preserve life (Gen. 45:5).
In God's eyes no person is above another, this incident of His guidance reveals the merit of trusting God even though we do not understand what is happening. Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34).
God's plan is not always clear as to what He is doing with our lives. He often withholds the knowledge of His presence in order to develop our faith, confidence, and trust in Him. We are told to: Trust in the Lord . . . and He shall direct thy paths (Prov. 3:5-6).
However, it should ease our minds just to know He has a plan for us. Remember, the roads Joseph had to walk through to get to his place. The Lord may be carrying you to a similar place. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end (Jer. 29:11).
For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us (II Cor. 1:20).
Thought for Today:
God often directs circumstances differently to accomplish His purposes.
Christ Revealed:
As the One who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases (Ps. 103:3). Forgiveness of sin and the healing power of God describe the ministry of our Lord Jesus, who was sent to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Luke 4:18-19; Matt. 9:6).
Word Studies:
101:2 perfect heart, blameless; a heart of integrity; 101:4 froward heart, an obstinate and evil mind; 101:5 cut off, destroy; suffer, tolerate; 101:7 tarry, continue to dwell; 102:26 wax old, deteriorate; 104:9 bound, boundary; 104:13 chambers, dwelling place, heavens.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Rev. Gladys Davis • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Official: Rep. Betty McCollum (MN) • Country: Malawi (10 million) in southeastern Africa • Major languages: English and Chichewa • Religious freedom • 34% Protestant; 23% Roman Catholic; 16% Muslim; 16% animist; 4% cults • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for understanding of His will as you read the Word of God (Ps. 25:5).
Optional Reading: 1 Timothy 3
Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 6:7
