“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
In times of impending calamity, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and hopeless. However, as believers, we can find comfort, strength, and hope in the promises of God’s Word. The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who faced tremendous adversity yet emerged victorious through their faith and trust in God.
One such example is Joseph, whose story is found in the book of Genesis. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers and later falsely imprisoned, Joseph remained faithful to God. He used his God-given wisdom and discernment to prepare for the coming famine, not only saving Egypt but also his own family. Genesis 41:33-36 says, “Now let Pharaoh look for a man discerning and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers in charge of the land, and let him exact a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance. Then let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming, and store up the grain for food in the cities under Pharaoh’s authority, and let them guard it. Let the food become as a reserve for the land for the seven years of famine which will occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land will not perish during the famine.”
Like Joseph, we too can prepare for the challenges ahead by seeking God’s wisdom and guidance. We can find hope in the knowledge that God is sovereign and in control, even when our circumstances seem dire. As we trust in Him and follow His leading, we can experience His peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Moreover, we can draw strength from the promise found in Romans 8:28, which states, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” This verse reminds us that even in the midst of trials and tribulations, God is working behind the scenes to bring about His perfect plan for our lives.
As we face the uncertainty of the future, let us hold fast to the hope we have in Christ. Let us prepare our hearts and minds through prayer, meditation on God’s Word, and wise action. May we, like Joseph, remain faithful and obedient to God, trusting that He will guide us, provide for us, and ultimately bring us through the storms of life.
Remember, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!'” – Psalm 91:1-2
