NEVER LEFT – Feeling God’s Presence and Blessings. Devotions from the Edges

NEVER LEFT –
Prepared by Pastor Calvin Cook
Scripture: Genesis 39:21 – But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. (ESV)

One morning, I said to Gail that I was leaving for the day and going on my way. While leaving I was distracted by a couple of other things that needed attention or done at the house and did those things. I passed through the room where Gail was and she asked, “Are you back already?” I responded, “No I haven’t left yet.”

Joseph’s story is a powerful example that God never left Joseph and hear this; God hasn’t left you either. God’s presence can and will transform even the most difficult circumstances, and hear this once again; God hasn’t left, God is still right in the midst of every situation. We just need to recognize God’s presence, guidance and especially God’s care in the most difficult of situations.

At the end of Genesis 39 we see once again how because of Joseph’s faithfulness, despite being betrayed that Joseph remains within the presence of God. I am reminded this morning at how many times in the story of Joseph we read “the Lord was with Joseph”. Despite being betrayed by someone who should have been trusted “The Lord was with Joseph.” This truth is profound—Joseph did not wait for favorable circumstances to acknowledge God’s presence. He recognized God was with him, even as he faced betrayal, loneliness, and uncertainty.

Joseph’s faithfulness was not rooted in worldly circumstances but in his unwavering trust in God’s provision and presence. Even in the midst of betrayal that Joseph endured, he chose to honor God through his actions. It is noted that Joseph’s faithfulness led to being blessed by God, and his faithfulness was witnessed. Joseph’s life was not one of luck, but one of faithfulness and being within the good and perfect will of God.

Like Joseph, we are called to acknowledge God’s presence, not only in times of joy but especially during hardship. This is hard, really hard! When we recognize that God is always with us, we can trust that His presence will guide us through every situation.
Here is the tough part, we must faithfully walk through, trusting in his constant presence and learning to lean into God’s constant presence. May the Holy Spirit guide us all today!

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for always being with us. Help us to recognize Your presence in every season of life. May we remain faithful, trusting that You are guiding us, even in the midst of challenges. In Jesus’ name, Amen.