January 13 "The Lord Is With You in Affliction" Genesis 38-40

Potiphar believed the daring assault on his wife at the hands of Joseph. But God was with Joseph, even in the most dank dark dangerous prison. The prison proved to be one of Potiphar's worst. But even there, Yahweh comforted Joseph with His Presence---no family, no friends, but the Very Presence, in midst of even more affliction for Joseph. From a cistern to a dungeon. Yet even there God caused Joseph to be patient and joyful. God supported Joseph with His Very Right Hand.  The Same for you and me.

But even, the Lord was with Joseph;
God showed him kindness,
Granted Him favor
Genesis 39:21

DEAR GOD, CHANGE US IN THESE 10,000 LITTLE MOMENTS, This day for me marks the onset of a season of affliction where You have been so present for me that it changed everything in my life. Oh Father, may we all know in even deeper ways Your Right Hand on our lives. May Your Favor rest on us and on our children.  The Same.

PHOTO:  "Doomed Star" - photo credit:  Commons, Flickr Smithsonian.  Doomed.  That's what Potiphar's wife wanted for Joseph.  A daring assault on his character.  She held his garment "in her hand" but she said he left it by her side.  Joseph could have given in---in secret---but no, he did what was right in the sight of God.  Now, God is with him in a doomed dungeon.  Not to rescue but to uphold and grow this young boy in grace.  Daring Grace.  The Same for you and me.