Trusting in God’s Providence

Life can be tough. Each season introduces challenges that push and test us, sometimes making us wonder if the Lord truly notices our burdens. At times, life's difficulties weigh so heavily that trusting God becomes harder than facing the trials themselves. It often feels like driving through fog at night—unfamiliar and with limited visibility. We see only a few feet ahead, yet we keep going—not because we know what’s next, but because we trust the One leading us.

In the later chapters of Genesis, we see Joseph’s journey—a man enduring periods of uncertainty. Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, wrongly imprisoned, and forgotten by those he aided, Joseph faced many times when God’s plan seemed hidden. Still, throughout every difficult phase, God was actively working behind the scenes. Joseph’s story teaches us that trusting in God’s care doesn’t depend on knowing the way—it’s about trusting the Driver.

Trust in the Lord’s Providence

God's providential nature signifies His faithful provision for His people. However, His provision often comes at unexpected times or in unforeseen ways. God’s timing is always perfect, never rushed or delayed. Joseph, for example, longed for release while in prison. To human eyes, it seemed like God was silent, but heaven was active behind the scenes. At the exact right moment, God opened the door, transforming Joseph from prisoner to governor and enabling him to save God’s people during the famine.

Driving through fog requires caution; stopping or rushing isn't wise. We proceed slowly, trusting that understanding will come with time. Similarly, faith pushes us forward even when answers are unclear. Like Joseph, we must believe that God is at work, even when we can't see why.

Live in Full Confidence of the Lord

The Lord is unwavering and steadfast. He is unaffected by obstacles, delays, or difficulties. He maintains sovereignty over all seasons of life. Joseph trusted God quietly and consistently. Whether in prison or in Pharaoh’s court, his faith remained steady. Although his circumstances changed greatly, his confidence was always rooted in the Lord.

Trusting in God doesn't equate to trusting winning results; it means trusting His character. Joseph trusted in God's goodness even when circumstances were harsh. When the path is uncertain and confusion surrounds us, confidence helps us stay focused. We believe that the One guiding us understands what is ahead, even if we cannot see it. Likewise, we must hold this belief. Whether in difficult valleys or joyful victories, we rely on the consistent faithfulness of the Lord.

Commit Our Work to the Lord

Joseph did not seek personal glory or revenge. Instead, he dedicated his life and future to the Lord. When his brothers feared retaliation after Jacob’s death, Joseph responded with grace rather than bitterness. He focused on God's actions through him, rather than past wrongs. Joseph recognized that his life belonged to God. Every role he undertook—whether as a slave, prisoner, or administrator—was a chance to serve the Lord faithfully.

Trusting in God’s providence relieves us from trying to control everything. We commit to working hard, loving genuinely, and serving with humility, trusting that God guides our path even if we don't see the full destination.

Find Encouragement in the Lord

Joseph’s capacity to forgive stemmed from his source of encouragement. He didn’t derive hope from people, authority, or status. Instead, his strength was rooted in recognizing God’s sovereignty over his whole life. He could reflect and say, ‘You intended harm for me, but God intended it for good.” Encouragement based on external circumstances can quickly fade. In contrast, encouragement anchored in the Lord lasts through all seasons.

When the journey seems prolonged and tiring, comfort isn't found in how much distance is left, but in the awareness that we're not alone. God’s presence supports, empowers, and fosters compassion even through suffering. Let us prioritize gaining the approval of our Heavenly Father over worldly praise.

Pray for the Ability to Rest in the Lord

Joseph’s life shows a man who continually sought the Lord. Prayer was always his lifeline, not just a fallback. It establishes a dialogue with God, where we share our burdens and gain His peace. Through prayer, believers learn to not only endure hardship but to find rest in it. True rest in God’s provision arises not from knowing all the answers but from trusting the One who holds them.

When the fog refuses to lift, prayer reminds us that God is still guiding every turn. We rest not because the road is easy, but because the Driver is faithful.

Resting in God’s Unseen Work

Joseph’s life was not easy, predictable, or pain-free. Yet at every point—whether in suffering or success—he trusted the providence of the Lord rather than his own wisdom. The same God who guided Joseph through betrayal, delay, and promotion is guiding His people today.

We may not see the full road ahead. The fog may remain. But step by step, mile by mile, the Lord is faithfully leading His children according to His perfect will. Like Joseph, may we commit ourselves to live not by sight—but by trust in the providence of the Lord.