Concluding Genesis

Tonight was my last  bible study class for the year.  Our study has been the book of Genesis and I have learned so much this year about my faith. But, what has really touched me about this study is being able to look into the dysfunctional families of Genesis, at God's continual work in them, at all the sin with the first man and woman who chose to disbelieve and disobey God, at the promises God made and how through sin He kept them, and as Joseph learned that in injustice and evil God will use it for good.

This last statement resonates with me.  There has been much injustice in my life in the last few years and I have not responded to it the way God intended.  This study has shown me what God wants me to do  Now I must continue to pray for the strength to follow through.

You see, our first reaction when we are treated badly or offended is to lash out at the offender. I certainly have done that in the past.  But the message of our Father is to not repay evil with evil.  This was the lesson for Joseph when he was thrown into the well by his brothers ( and family can be the most hurtful can't they?).  The lesson was to repay evil with good.  When we are mistreated it is in preparation. There is a higher purpose. You must triumph by your confident trust in God in injustice of suffering. God will prove Himself sufficient in every need.

This trust does not make the suffering easier.  There are still tears, lashing out in anguish, sleepless nights and ugly thoughts.  But submitting to God will make you more beautiful and God will equip you for His great work.  Your external response will be seen and this can lead others to Him.

So how did the study of Genesis change my thinking and character? 

I planted seeds as a mother.  Not all of those seeds grew as I hoped.  I still have time to plant new ones and nurture again.  But this time I have a wholly sovereign God at my side.  And he is turning the spade.