God doesn't ever waste an experience. He is Almighty God who sees and knows all. That does not mean He is waiting to see what we do wrong but it means HE is ever present with us.....To love us and know us as our most treasured friend. In Acts 7:9 the Bible speaks of Joseph being "envied by the patriarchs and then sold into slavery." Forgotten so it seems, "but God was with him and delivered him out of all his troubles, and gave him favor and wisdom in the presence of Pharaoh, King of Egypt; and he made him governor of Egypt and all his house." God did this for Joseph because Joseph had developed a personal relationship with Him, Almighty God! While Joseph was alone, and in prison (a situation he did not choose), he could have given up, turned negative with his conversation and thoughts, and angry. Instead, Joseph allowed God to intervene in his time there in that dark lonely place. His spirit began to soften, his body changed physically while a prisoner, all the while God was changing him on the inside into a man HE could use. One who reflected qualities of a Godly man. Unseen forces working at best! This incident in Scripture makes it clear that delays are not denials, and that God's permissive will is involved in all of life. Joseph became a wise man. God encourages us often in Scripture to ASK for wisdom. He assures you and me in James 1:5 if we ask, we will receive a liberal reception of wisdom.
Wisdom is a valuable gift God can and does give, it's a TRUE promise. God's desire is for us to grow. It is not a pretty sight to see a man or woman who has refused to grow up. God's desire is to grow us up in a timely gracious way. "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child, but WHEN I became a man, I put away childish things." I Corn. 13:11 I think God is saying, "now is a good time to let me take control." He doesn't use force, but by wisdom and in love as we rest in Him, He takes control in a good way. He was with Joseph and He will be with you and me too. His plans for you are so much higher and greater than you or I could ever imagine or see.
Look in the mirror and then look up toward the Heavenly realm. Ask HIM to change you so you look like JESUS. That, my friend, is what I hope daily we are able to do, surrender to the person that He would want you and me to become. "Therefore, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it ALL to the GLORY OF GOD!"I Corinthians 10:31. It really is a beautiful reflection when we see the light of His love in the light of another's eyes! Enjoy the blessings of this last day of MAY!
