Living the Dream: A Devotional for Students Through the Life of Joseph預覽

Day 5 - In the Pit

At 17 years old, Joseph found himself in a tough spot. Stripped of who he was, Joseph was thrown into an empty, dark well. His brothers forcibly removed his robe which was a significant problem. It meant that the robe they took from him (which symbolized his father’s honor and love) no longer covered him. He wasn't identified as the beloved son anymore. He didn't carry the prestige of that title at the bottom of the well. He was on his own..no family and no hope for what once was.

Some translations of Genesis 37 describe this well Joseph was thrown into a “pit.” When you hear that word, you may automatically relate. Perhaps you are familiar with what it feels like to be in a pit. It can feel dark, lonely, and hopeless with no way out.

Maybe you’ve experienced the pit of depression.

Maybe you've been in the pit of separation or divorce.

Maybe you've found yourself in the pit of an unforeseen sickness or the death of someone close.

For Joseph, the pit wasn't the end of his story because he wasn’t alone. His faithful God was with him in the pit and God's plan would not fail. He would provide the right people to come along at just the right time so that Joseph would be lifted out of the pit. Not only that but there was nothing his brothers could do to rob him of his identity as a son of God.

This is true for the Christ follower too. No matter how deep the pit, God is always near. No matter how much you may feel like you’re in between a rock and a hard place, it’s not a dead end. No matter what has been done to you, you are a child of God. That is who you are. Your pit doesn't define your future. God does.

Reflect:

What is a moment from your own life that has felt like a “pit” moment?

Pray an honest prayer to God today. Thank him for bringing you out of the pit. Then share with Him how you're feeling if you’re navigating a tough circumstance right now.