The Daily Fountain Devotional of the Church Of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) 29 August 2024 — Help Of The Helpless
TOPIC: Help Of The Helpless
READ: Genesis 39: 21-23 (NKJV)
- But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him mercy, and He gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
- And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph’s hand all the prisoners who [were] in the prison; whatever they did there, it was his doing.
- The keeper of the prison did not look into anything [that was] under [Joseph’s] authority, because the LORD was with him; and whatever he did, the LORD made [it] prosper.
THE MESSAGE:
The popular hymn “When other helpers fail, and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me” might have some connection with Joseph’s experience. Friends and his new found family had turned their back on him “But the Lord was with Joseph in the prison” (v.21). Soon, Joseph was put in charge of other prisoners such that whatever they did there, it was his doing (v.22b).
Have friends and close relatives turned their back on you simply because you would not dance to their tune? Are you suffering affliction for refusing to enjoy the temporal pleasures of sin? Be encouraged, you’re not alone. “… For he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Heb.13:5). Tribulation is a veritable tool God uses to break our outward man so that as we come in contact with people, we will become merciful. For then, the life of God in us can freely flow to others unhindered. Afflictions had broken Joseph to the point that the spirit of glory and of God now rested upon him (1Pet. 4:14). God’s life in him had free course, affecting and influencing other prisoners. Be a help to others.
PRAYER: Lord, cause me to experience Your presence as you abide with me now and always.
