Now is the time.... To Develop Character

…..and we glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance, and perseverance character, and character hope. Romans 5:3-4

I have been reading again the story of Joseph’s reunion with his brothers who had sold him into slavery in Egypt many years before (Genesis 37). What a man of character Joseph turned out to be. But how did that happen? Through much tribulation, perseverance and hope.

As a youth Joseph had a dream about him being in a place of power and authority; a dream that was given by God, but for a future time. Before the dream could become a reality Joseph had to endure many hardships. He was rejected by his brothers, sold into slavery, wrongly accused by an employer’s wife, imprisoned and forgotten…… until the appointed time! Through it all Joseph developed a solid character and a humility which gave God the glory that was due to him (Genesis 41:16).

Tribulations – challenging, difficult, painful times are often God-given opportunities to develop our character in order to prepare us for His purposes, as we see was clearly the case in the life of Joseph. Though persecuted, ridiculed and cast out by his brothers, Joseph maintained an attitude which allowed the favour of God to rest upon him. Even in prison he was given a position of trust. He was a man of humility, with a willing spirit to serve and this did not go unnoticed by those around him. For him to be this way I truly believe he must have trusted that God had a future and a purpose for him, even in his darkest days.

Finally his dream of long ago became a reality and he found himself in a position of high authority in Egypt, his brothers bowing at his feet (Genesis 45). When he revealed his true identity to his brothers it was not with recrimination but he comforted them with, “But now therefore do not be grieved and angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life……. and to save your lives by a great deliverance.”

Perhaps you are the first believer in your family or amongst your friends, and find yourself persecuted or at least viewed with suspicion, if not ridicule. Can you glory in the difficulties knowing that there will come a time when you will be given the opportunity to bring deliverance to those you love? Now is the time to develop patience and character and wait for God’s appointed time. He will not disappoint you.

Faithful Father, thank you for calling me into your kingdom of light and love. Please help me to follow Joseph’s example and keep a forgiving and faithful heart so that I can be found pleasing in your sight. Amen