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READ:  Genesis 39:1-23
LISTEN: Genesis 39

The Lord was with [Joseph]; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. Genesis 39:21

The Bible doesn’t shy away from pain but explains where the world’s brokenness came from. In fact, stories of people experiencing pain fill the Bible. Yet a repeated theme emerges: God is present with people in their pain. Joseph experiences great suffering throughout his story in Genesis. The text reveals that “the Lord was with Joseph,” too (Genesis 39:2, 21). God was with Joseph when he was sold into slavery by his brothers. God is also with Joseph when he is wrongfully accused and sent to prison. God is present in Joseph’s pain.

We often question where God is during our painful experiences. This is why our “You Asked for It” series addressed this topic. Pastor Brad Holmes reminded us that God is present in our pain, just as he was with Joseph. When we are in pain, we should look for God’s presence. Just like Joseph could see how God was with him in his painful situations, there are things for us to spot as well. It might be when someone drops off a meal, a sermon that speaks to the heart, a verse that comes to mind or a surgeon who knows exactly what to do. When we look for God’s presence, we find it. He has not abandoned us in our pain.

TODAY: Start a gratitude list in your journal or phone and look for God’s presence in your life. Try to write down three things you are grateful for each day. Express your gratitude to God, the giver of all good gifts.