Hope In The Face Of Despair
BRD REFLECTIONS
Genesis 43 & Psalm 43 (NIV)
(Cheryl Seow, WSCS President)
READ:
In Genesis 43:1, Jacob and his sons were enduring a severe famine in Canaan. There was little relief from suffering. As I read Genesis 43, I see the reconciliation story between Joseph and his brothers unfolding.
In Psalm 43, the psalmist wrote about feeling oppressed, rejected and being in mourning (verse 2). Psalm 43:3-5 tells me to:
(1) ask God to send forth His light and truth to guide me,
(2) place my hope in Him, and
(3) praise His Mighty Name.
OBSERVE:
I am immeasurably blessed by God. I have, however, experienced periods of struggle, the most impactful one being the years of rejection I faced as a young adult. During those years, I did not always understand why God placed me in such situations. I can imagine Jacob and his sons thinking the same thoughts, after “they had eaten all the grain they had brought from Egypt” and probably worried about when their next meal would be. I lamented and wrestled with God, much like the psalmists in Psalm 43. Looking back, God had a plan of reconciliation for me, just like His plan for Joseph and his brothers to be reunited. I am reminded God answered me in my time of distress, and was with me wherever I have been (Genesis 35:3).
APPLY:
Life will present me with more challenges. I shall refer to Psalm 43:3-5, and other parts of the Bible, which provides clear, structured instructions to face these challenges. In all circumstances, I am reminded to persist in praising His Name.
DO:
I shall continue to be intentional and disciplined to read and meditate on His Word daily. I shall talk to God by praying daily. These will help me face challenges and overcome times of despair. I shall be sensitive to what God is revealing to me through these experiences, and what God’s lessons are for me. To be effective, I have started journaling during my quiet time. I shall strive to continue this practice as note-taking helps me to remember and apply what I read. Despite my weaknesses and sinfulness, I shall pray and seek how God wants to use me for the furtherance of His Kingdom.
PRAY:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for being there for me, through my ups and downs. Thank you for showing me that reconciliation and forgiveness is possible and real, through my life experiences, the story of Joseph and his family, and ultimately through Jesus’ death on the Cross.
I seek Your forgiveness for the times I have not trusted You wholeheartedly, and not ceding control to You. You are a Good Father. I know You have plans for me to prosper, and You will not put me through life challenges which I cannot bear.
In the Mighty Name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
