“I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.” –Genesis 41:16
“I DO IT!!” If you’ve ever had a toddler or had the opportunity to be around a toddler, you have likely heard these three words. Now, please do not confuse this three-word statement with the excitement of a child who is excited to learn something new. Rather, this “I DO IT!!” proclamation is typically heard when time is of the essence and it seems clear to all those around that help is needed. But, the adorable, head-strong child is content to spend as much time as necessary to complete the task at hand ALL ON THEIR OWN. The fact that the toddler has very little experience, may be small in stature, or may have their shoe laces tied in 30 unfathomable knots is of no concern to them. The toddler is confident in their OWN skills and undeterred in whatever mission they are trying to accomplish. They do not want help nor do they believe they need help. Luckily, for many parents, they are also easy to transport so often that can be the easier task rather than trying to convince their precious toddler just how much they love them, how much they desire to help, and how much easier the task could be with their help.
I wonder how many times God looks at us and wonders the same thing… Why won’t they just call on me? Why won’t they let me help? Why do they think they should or could do this ALL ON THEIR OWN?
The story of Joseph in Genesis 37-40 is one of my favorite Bible stories. Joseph’s journey provides us inspiration on how we should live our life having great faith, love, and practicing forgiveness. Joseph doesn’t fall on hard times just once. After being horribly sold into slavery by his own brothers, he finds success in Potiphar’s household through hard work and determination. For a second time, his bountiful status is taken from him when Potiphar’s wife wrongly accuses him of inappropriate behavior and he is thrown into prison. However, Joseph refused to be deterred and the scriptures tells us that his faith in the Lord remained. Because of that faith and God-given wisdom, he eventually rose to power yet again, leading to the unbelievable position which allowed him to grant leniency to his family despite their previous sin against him.
Joseph’s ability to persevere, despite his surroundings was due primarily to his ability to trust in the Lord. Joseph never stopped seeking the Lord’s assistance and neither should we. In every daily task, we should seek God’s unending answers, especially when we may want to say, “I DO IT!”.
Shannon Goodwin, Finance Office
