Pain Replaced By God's Favor

“Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh; because he said: God made me forget all my painful work in my father's house. And he called the name of his second son, Ephraim; for he said, God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction.” [1]

Joseph experienced God’s favor, so much so that he gave his sons names to reflect his gratitude towards God. His own brothers betrayed him and made him suffer greatly. But God turned what was meant for evil into a blessing for Joseph. God’s blessing during the latter days of Joseph’s life far outweighed the pain and afflictions that came to him from his family when he was young.

Brothers and Sisters, trust in the Lord. Keep serving Him. Keep loving Him. The Lord will turn the tide on evil one’s work to destroy you. “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” [2] “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” [3]

Jesus wants us to enjoy God’s blessings. “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” [4]

[1] Genesis 41:51-52
[2] 1 John 3:8
[3] Romans 8:28
[4] John 10:10