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By Austin Bishop

20 Then Joseph’s master took him and put him into the prison, a place where the king’s prisoners were confined. And he was there in the prison. 21 But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him mercy, and He gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. 22 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. 23 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.

— Genesis 39:20-23 (NKJV)

Often in life we will be misunderstood, misjudged, and mistreated.

As we walk through these trials and tribulations of life we must understand that we are not alone.

This was certainly the situation Joseph found himself in today’s passage. Despite being a slave, Joseph had been not only a good servant, but a great one.

His character was strong, and he refused to do what He knew was displeasing to God.  But despite all of this, he was wrongly accused and punished for doing what was right.

The first six words of Genesis 39:21 read as follows: “But the Lord was with Joseph ….”

The raw power in those six words is overwhelming and must not be ignored, underrated, or undervalued.

Whether or not God is with you is determined by your relationship with Him, not your circumstance. God will not quit on you, although many do quit on Him. Stay connected and remain faithful. When you live life a God-honoring way, it will be easier to feel his presence, even in dire circumstances.

Always remember that it is God who grants you favor with others. What you do with that favor is your responsibility.

When God grants you favor in a situation, do you take advantage of it? Do you even recognize it?  Live as though God HAS granted you favor, not wondering if He will. Serving others well allows you to make a positive impact on those around you.

Find time to thank God all throughout your day. Re-submit yourself to Him every day, willingly giving up your desires for His. He is present with you whether you can feel it or not. The deeper you walk into your relationship with Him, the more assured of His presence you will be.

Austin Bishop has been a journalist for 50 years and is an ordained minister. Those wishing to receive his daily devotional/Bible study notes may sign up by texting 601-938-2471 and asking to be added to either the morning or afternoon list. He can be reached by e-mail at starsportsboss@yahoo.com.