The Humility of True Power
“I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.”—Genesis 41:16 (NIV)
I was angry, good and angry, because of Israel’s sins. I struck him hard and turned away in anger, while he kept at his stubborn, willful ways. When I looked again and saw what he was doing, I decided to heal him, lead him, and comfort him.—Isaiah 57:17-18 (MSG)
The Old Testament has many instances of God’s followers experiencing hardship and learning life lessons the hard way. However, today’s verse shows that God is merciful. His teaching is clear and simple: sin leads to pain and obedience leads to blessing. When you take this lesson to heart, you spare yourself difficulties and experience His grace.
Heavenly Father, thank You for guiding me on the path that leads me closer to You.
“I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.”—Genesis 41:16 (NIV)
Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun. It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, like a champion rejoicing to run his course.—Psalm 19:4–5 (NIV)
The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.—John 3:8 (NIV)