Dear Ones:
Often in Scripture when we encounter the word “mystery,” we are confronted with the concept of “hidden meaning,” or a truth not yet revealed. It is the case in life, in particular, in the life of the Christian, that much is hidden with respect to the work of God in the life. We seem to get glimpses of the movement of His hand, but we are called upon for all that remains to believe Him, to trust Him. This becomes very difficult to do when there is suffering, loss, or just simply, lack of knowledge. We must remember that in the life of the Christian, there is nothing “par hazard,” by chance, and that the Great Director of the circumstance of our lives “purposes a crop.” In light of this reality, what are some of the “edges of His ways?”
Who would have thought that it would take being sold into Egypt as a slave, blessed by God in that position only to be subsequently put in prison though innocent of the accusation. There Joseph would live and serve, again blessed of God in his service. And yet, after one particular opportunity to get out of prison, God would leave him there another “two full years.” Why? Because “God purposeth a crop.” In the difficulty and lack of understanding on the part of Joseph, God was working to form His man for the task that would be entrusted to him. With regard to this task, it must be understood that God’s work must be done in God’s way. Only the man or woman who is willing to learn the ways of God will be used in God’s work. What is therefore His way? What of necessity had to occur in the heart of Joseph so that God could bless him, entrusting him with such great responsibility?
In Psalm 105:17-19, we read: “…He (God) sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant: whose feet they hurt with fetters; he was laid in iron: until the time that His word came: the Word of the Lord tried (tested) him.” During Joseph’s time in Egypt, in and out of prison, there came the realization, the conviction that it was God who was the author of His circumstances. It was God who had a plan, an objective, a purpose. And Joseph came to understand that he was an integral part of that “mission.” However, in order for it to be realized, Joseph had to be brought in his mind and heart to the point where he was wholly dependent upon God, his whole HOPE and EXPECTATION rested solely upon Him. When Joseph was in one day taken from the depths of the prison, and made prime minister of Egypt, he was free man. He was free from the tyranny of trusting in himself, and seeking to “direct his own path.” He was God’s man, in GOD’s place, in God’s business, living by faith…and this for God’s glory.
It was, and is, a mystery concerning God’s dealings with us. The question is: Can God find in our hearts and minds those who will accept the circumstance of God’s choosing, relying wholly upon Him in those circumstances, believing that He does not make mistakes. “All things work together for good to those who love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.” (Rom. 8:28) Will we believe Him for “a crop,” the realization of His purposes?
Dear Lord, Thy dealings with us are often shrouded with “mystery,” as we do not understand the intricacy or the complexity of Thy design. But one thing we do know, and that is, that when we belong to Thee by creation, redemption, and self-surrender, you will ALWAYS be at work to do ALL things for the good of those who love Thee. Strengthen our hearts to make Thee by faith our GREAT HOPE, ever depending upon Thee for all. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Love, Dad