He can … – Day 8

Tears flowed down the 23-year-old waiter’s face as she looked at the payslip. Not because the two clients did not give her a tip, but due to the hostile words they wrote on the slip. This, while she served them with friendliness throughout their meal. On the basis of her skin colour, they refused to give her a tip.

The two customers went further and posted a photo of the receipt on social media. While thinking they would receive support for their action, the public was furious. The picture and story spread like a wildfire and a fund-raising initiative for the waitress started spontaneously. Within a few days, the waitress received a hefty amount of money (more than some waitresses make in a year).

The waitress’ response in a Facebook post after receiving the money, touched me. She wrote, “I am overwhelmed. No words can describe how I feel. My mother was diagnosed with cancer and I quit my job to care for her. With this money I will be able to do it.” Did the Lord know about her situation? Of course.

Joseph was in a similar situation. Rejected by his brothers and later on, also by Potiphar, he was then thrown into the Egyptian prison. Throughout, he trusted God, knowing that He remained in control. In one day, God elevated Joseph from prisoner to second-in-charge in Egypt.

When Joseph’s brothers came to buy food during the famine, they shivered with fear when realising they stood in front of him. Listen to his words to them: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:20). In Psalm 25:9 we read: “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.” God strategically placed Joseph where he would be able to look after his family during the famine in the country. Would he have ended up there in any other way? I doubt it.

What is your challenge today? An unreasonable boss or difficult colleagues leaving you depressed and discouraged? A challenge in your personal life that worsens every day? God can change your situation in a day. Let us learn from the waitress and also from Joseph’s life by remaining faithful to Him, trusting that He sees the bigger picture and that He is strategically at work in your life. God bless you.

Assignment for the day: Make a list of the challenges you face today. Give it to God and start to thank Him in advance that He is busy working everything together for your good.