Genesis 42:35–36 (ESV) As they emptied their sacks, behold, every man’s bundle of money was in his sack. And when they and their father saw their bundles of money, they were afraid. 36 And Jacob their father said to them, “You have bereaved me of my children: Joseph is no more, and Simeon is no more, and now you would take Benjamin. All this has come against me.”
It's easy for us to look back and know that Jacob had nothing to worry about. His favored son was behind what was causing His fear. But for Jacob, in that moment, he didn't know what was coming next and his faith was challenged.
It's easy when it's not our child, our job, our health, or our responsibility to think, "oh, they just need to trust God." It is easy to trust God. It's hard to live through the pain that God allows.
The Lord always strengthens His children with joy (Nehmiah 8:10). But joy does not always occur in happiness or good times. Joy is often felt best when things are at their worst.
This is why we need brothers and sisters that can comfort and encourage us. If this is a good time in your life, be faithful to God and build your faith in preparation for the hard days ahead. And while things are good, reach out to those that are struggling. Pray for them often, let them know you care, and give this some time and attention. They need you and one day, you will need them.
In Christ we are a family and as the children of God we need to stand with those who face faith challenges today.
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