FRUITFULNESS IN AFFLICTION
And the name of the second he called Ephraim: for God hath caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction. - Genesis 41:52
For revealing his dreams to his brothers, he became an object of envy and hatred. He was sold out to slavery. He suffered many afflictions, but he never lost his faith and integrity. In the land of affliction, he was dutiful and never lost focus in His Lord God. Then there arose a global famine and God decided to remember him. He rose from the prison to the palace to save the whole world from starving to death. This was the story of Joseph, Ephraim’s father, the man who became prosperous despite the suffering and lack in the land. (Read Genesis 41).
At times, the situations around us may appear contrary to our dreams and expectations. Hardship, betrayal, disappointment, scarcity may become daily occurrences. There is good news this day. There is a God who remembers His people in such a time and rewards them with abundance in the midst of scarcity just as He did for Joseph. So that “as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:5). As He remembered Jacob in Laban’s house of labour, the Lord will end your years of suffering with fruitfulness.
Beloved, are you a victim of circumstances? Situations are out of your human control, and you have remained faithful to your God. Despite temptations to deny your God, you have been steadfast. Though, they have labelled you a fool for being truthful and persecuted for shunning evil, God’s word of assurance this day is that you shall soon begin to swim in the ocean of abundance, rule over your accusers and scoffers. And in the end you may boldly say, “The Lord stood with me, and strengthened me …to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.” (2 Timothy 4:17; Genesis 41:52).
Today’s Recite: Let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. (1 Peter 4:19).
Today’s Morning Prayer: My faithful God I Worship You for a new day, a new hope. I present my case before you and ask that You turn it around for good for me and to You glory and honour. Turn my labour into prosperity and suffering to surpluses. For I humbly as in Jesus mighty name. Amen
Today’s Hymn: IT PAYS TO SERVE JESUS
Today’s Read Me: Deuteronomy 27 – 28