"Concerning the works of men, by the Word of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer. Hold up my goings in Thy Paths, that my footsteps slip not.” Psalm 17:4-5
Sometimes, in order to move on, we will have to leave something behind. Some of those things will be left behind of our own freewill; while others will be left behind reluctantly. Like Joseph fleeing Potiphar’s wife, sometimes we simply have to chart a course that allows us to flee from the oncoming path of the destroyer; rather than, trying to exhaust the limits of our willpower. The longer we stay, the more difficult it is to leave things behind. In Joseph’s case, he left his garments behind throughout each transition of his life, simply to remain on God’s Path.
First, he had to relinquish his childhood coat-of-many-colors to his brothers. This forced him to reconsider his interpretation of his childhood dream, and to begin the first step of the journey that God planned for his life. His future seemed bleak. –And yet, it moved him to Potiphar’s house; the place where he would discover his gift for managing large agricultural fields, accounting records, financial concerns, and personnel.
Then, he had to relinquish his managerial robe to Potiphar’s wife. –This sent him to the royal prison, teaching him yet another level of understanding about his life. –How to have patience, perseverance, and reliance on God.
Then, he exchanged his prison uniform for a borrowed royal court robe. A robe that was given to him so that he could stand presentable before the king. This would teach him that sometimes, when God gives us the opportunity to shine, it may not come at the most opportune moment; and, we may not even be prepared for it. –But, try anyway; because, God will surprise you!
You know the rest of the story. In the end, Joseph literally exchanged his borrowed court garments for the fine linen robe of the King. In each leg of Joseph’s journey, he learned the necessary skills that he would need to ultimately undertake the vast scope of God’s plan.
Like the relinquishment of Joseph’s garments, when we remain on God’s Path, no matter how far off the desired terrain it may be, we will always benefit in regard to those things left behind for the sake of God’s Word. So, do not be afraid if the path seems bleak; or, if you have left behind your favorite job; or even, if you feel trapped, patiently awaiting an opportunity. Know that if you have given up something for God, it will be restored far beyond your belief. L.
Study Reference: Psalm 17:4-5
From: "Your Thoughts: "Go Ahead, Let It Go!." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wordpress
"Concerning the works of men, by the Word of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer. Hold up my goings in Thy Paths, that my footsteps slip not.” Psalm 17:4-5
Sometimes, in order to move on, we will have to leave something behind. Some of those things will be left behind of our own freewill; while others will be left behind reluctantly. Like Joseph fleeing Potiphar’s wife, sometimes we simply have to chart a course that allows us to flee from the oncoming path of the destroyer; rather than, trying to exhaust the limits of our willpower. The longer we stay, the more difficult it is to leave things behind. In Joseph’s case, he left his garments behind throughout each transition of his life, simply to remain on God’s Path.
First, he had to relinquish his childhood coat-of-many-colors to his brothers. This forced him to reconsider his interpretation of his childhood dream, and to begin the first step of the journey that God planned for his life. His future seemed bleak. –And yet, it moved him to Potiphar’s house; the place where he would discover his gift for managing large agricultural fields, accounting records, financial concerns, and personnel.
Then, he had to relinquish his managerial robe to Potiphar’s wife. –This sent him to the royal prison, teaching him yet another level of understanding about his life. –How to have patience, perseverance, and reliance on God.
Then, he exchanged his prison uniform for a borrowed royal court robe. A robe that was given to him so that he could stand presentable before the king. This would teach him that sometimes, when God gives us the opportunity to shine, it may not come at the most opportune moment; and, we may not even be prepared for it. –But, try anyway; because, God will surprise you!
You know the rest of the story. In the end, Joseph literally exchanged his borrowed court garments for the fine linen robe of the King. In each leg of Joseph’s journey, he learned the necessary skills that he would need to ultimately undertake the vast scope of God’s plan.
Like the relinquishment of Joseph’s garments, when we remain on God’s Path, no matter how far off the desired terrain it may be, we will always benefit in regard to those things left behind for the sake of God’s Word. So, do not be afraid if the path seems bleak; or, if you have left behind your favorite job; or even, if you feel trapped, patiently awaiting an opportunity. Know that if you have given up something for God, it will be restored far beyond your belief. L.
Study Reference: Psalm 17:4-5
From: "Your Thoughts: "Go Ahead, Let It Go!." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wordpress
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