“He sent a man before them, Joseph, who was sold as a slave. They afflicted his feet with fetters, He himself was laid in irons; until the time that his word came to pass, the word of the LORD tested him.” (Ps 105:17-19)
The life of Joseph is one of suspense and tragedy. As you read the record of Joseph’s life in Genesis 37-50, there are many points when it would be entirely appropriate for Joseph to wonder, “Why God? Why me? What have I done to deserve this lot in life? Where are your promises that I was told to expect?”
The answer to all those questions is found in this Psalm. “Until the time” the psalmist says. All of Joseph’s trials and afflictions were testing, training, and molding him until the time God would use him. Young Joseph could not comprehend the skills and maturity he would need for the purposes God had in mind for his future. Yet, God knew exactly what Joseph would have to become in order to be the man of the hour that would save his family.
You never know what you are being prepared for. “Until the time” we must mold our lives, suffer if need be, and look with faithfulness to the Word that has fed the souls of billions strengthening their hearts for whatever the hour might require.
Be ready.
Matt 4:4 #Biblebites