Devotion for the day

Genesis 41:52 says:  And the name of the second he called Ephraim: “For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.”

In today’s devotion, we see Joseph in a position of influence, a position God soon used to feed surrounding nations and Joseph’s family during famine. But how did he become influential? It began with wound being sold into slavery (Genesis 39) which produced a pearl of usefulness. Because Joseph drew on God’s resources when humiliated, he became better, not bitter. He named his second son Ephraim, which means “twice fruitful,” and he said, “God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction” (41:52).

I like what author Billheimer says of Joseph, “If human pity could have rescued him from the sad part of his life, the glorious part that followed would have been lost.” So my dear Brother and Sister if you’re suffering, remember: No wounds, No pearl. Remember Adversities are often blessings in Disguise. 

Grace and Peace to You,

Pastor John Spurgeon