Genesis 47: Students

Providence in Lean Seasons

Genesis 47:12 (New Living Translation) - "Joseph also provided his father, his brothers, and all his father’s household with food, according to the number of their dependents."

You know how it feels when your plans don't work out. You were looking forward to the summer soccer season, but now it's canceled due to a sudden pandemic. Disappointment hangs in the air, uncertainty hovers. It's like a harsh, unexpected season of famine in your life.

Yet, there's a bright part to this story. Joseph, amidst the scarcity, provided for his family. Because of Joseph's foresight, wisdom, and faith, he not only helped his family but the entire nation of Egypt to survive the famine. In our own 'famine' seasons, we can be assured that God is like Joseph to us, providing and caring.

Even when our plans falter, God's provisions do not. He has a way of working things out that we might not see immediately, but we can trust in His faithfulness. He is our provider and sustainer, even in the lean seasons.

Pause & Pray:

1. Pray for faith to trust in God's providence, even when times are tough.
2. Ask God to open your eyes to see His provisions in your life.
3. Pray for wisdom and strength to help others in their time of need, as Joseph did.