God is never obligated to give us health and wealth, but the story of Joseph is an example of a man who was rewarded for his righteousness and kept his integrity intact. From him we can learn a lesson in how to respond to those who prosper and those who suffer.
Instead he suggests asking ourselves a question when something negative happens: What does this experience make possible?
In life, testing is more often than not “par for the course.” But sometimes God rescues us from our plight, bringing us into new circumstances. For 13 years Joseph had been a slave in Egypt. And all the while, His plans for Joseph were in motion, leading Joseph to the cusp of his release from prison and an unexpected blessing. Through Joseph’s example, we should be encouraged to trust God—even in difficult times of waiting.
Rhome shares a perspective of gratitude as he accepts the life God has given him and his family. Blessings still abound and, as He did for Joseph, God is growing him through ongoing events.
Rhome shares how things unfolded at the birth of his second daughter, when they learned she has Down Syndrome. He describes what she's like now, as a 21-month-old gift from God.
The pain of unjust suffering—one of the most severe trials we can experience—tests our faith like nothing else. In our world today, we can’t escape it. As difficult as injustice is to endure, the greater challenge is facing it with an attitude that preserves faith. For the most part, we can’t control what happens to us today or tomorrow, whether fair or foul. But we can choose our attitude.
We never know when our present trials will finally be over. Rhome and Chuck urge us not to put our hope in any specific timing but to rest in God's presence in the midst of the shadows.
Are the attitudes of unselfish humility, joyful acceptance, strong determination, and genuine thanksgiving evident in the way you respond to circumstances? Maybe it's time to make some changes.
It took time for Rhome to work through his anger toward his father. But he knew he didn't want to be angry his whole life, and he also saw God's faithfulness working in his and his mom's life.
As Rhome had to deal with caring for his mother, while also a full-time seminary student, he learned he had to discard his own plans for his life. But he was tempted to take the safer route.
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