A Character-building God

Until the time came to fulfill his dreams,
the Lord tested Joseph’s character.

Psalm 105:19 nlt

Pause

We might think Joseph’s jail time wasn’t so bad. He was the warden’s right-hand man enjoying free roam, right? That’s true, to a degree. But let’s not forget his time spent in fetters and an iron collar. Prisons were horrible places. How difficult his experience must have been! But God had a purpose for Joseph’s pain.

God knew Joseph would someday be a key leader. Doing his job well would require integrity, knowledge, wisdom, and compassion. These qualities needed to be developed and honed. Prison became the place of preparation. The cell became his classroom. When the appointed time came, Joseph was ready.

Life would be easier if we could develop character through self-improvement courses. We’d rather forget the cell and forego the trials, but God knows how to best prepare us for the purposes we cannot see. Only he knows the road on which we travel and what lies ahead. Let’s work with him and allow him to use this time to grow us into the people he wants and needs us to be.

Ponder

What character quality is God honing through your circumstances?

Pray

Father, use my pain for your highest purposes. Don’t let it be in vain.