The Land of Suffering

Joseph was 17 years old when he was sold by his brothers, he was 30 years old when he entered the service of Pharaoh King of Egypt. For 13 years he dwelt in "the land of suffering." He endured deception, slavery, was falsely accused by Potiphar's wife, imprisoned, and it was all the will of God! (Genesis Chapters 37-50)God had a purpose, a plan to be carried out that could only be accomplished by Joseph. And, it was God's will that it be carried out in "the land of suffering." Sometimes, God's perfect plan often leads us through a land filled with pain, misery, heartache and despair that we, like Joseph, are forced to endure.Would to God that we could be like Joseph and not only forget our troubles while we're in the land of suffering, but become fruitful like he did and become a blessing to those around us.That's not an easy thing to do whenever pain is a constant companion. But, Jesus never did say our lives would be easy ones. He did, however, promise us in His Word that He would always be with us; every step of the way."... Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)How privileged we are to walk through the land of suffering where Joseph once trod.Though painful it is, when our journey gets weary, we can draw strength from the Word of our God.When the road that we're walking seems barren and lonely, the pathway You've given deserted and rough.Only to know You'll walk through it with us; this Sweet Jesus is more than enough.© 2005 by Dot McGinnishttp://our.homewithgod.com/heavenlyinspirations/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HeavenlyInspirations-originalwritings/