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“And the seven years of famine began, just as Joseph had said. There was famine in every country, but throughout the land of Egypt there was food.” Genesis 41:54 (HCSB)

Nothing sweeter than easy times – abundant times when life flows effortlessly.  Challenges appear minimal and self-dependence appears to work.  But I wonder what God desires for us in those places of ease?  I’m sure self dependence doesn’t rank at the top of the list.  I’m confident that He doesn’t want us to simply slide through those days without Him.

Relationship is always paramount on God’s mind.  Why?  Because when we cultivate and participate in an active relationship with God, He fills us with His wisdom, guidance and discernment.  He shapes, prunes and molds us in just the right way to birth growth and transformation.   The perfect classroom setting – enjoying ease and abundance – stockpiling for the days ahead, because God doesn’t waste anything.

Seven years of abundance in Egypt – the good and plenty –  was the news Joseph gave Pharaoh from his dream.  The flipside was the plenty would then empty into seven years of famine.  During those years of abundance, Joseph carried out a plan to prepare for empty.  Instead of allowing overflow to lead to waste or over indulgence, Joseph stockpiled for when severe famine would come. Wise preparation saved the lives of many.

Wonder if we lean in during the good times so we will be prepared when life dumps on our happy?  Ease isn’t always our stride.  God’s word reminds us that we will face trials, struggles and challenges.  Real question is are we attentive and engaged students when ease is our stride?  What are we storing up for the famine of our souls when life breaks in difficult, hard places?

Like Joseph, we must have a strategic plan.  Saturating our lives with God’s word, deepening our prayer life and applying His principles provides us with a surplus to draw from. Every verse we memorize, every moment spent at His feet, every truth embedded deep in our hearts creates a memory bank of God’s faithfulness.  Unlike Joseph, our empty usually arrives without notice or warning.  However, wise preparation in ease will sustain us in the unexpected hard places.

“Father, help us to release self dependence in moments of ease and hide your word deep into our hearts.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life