"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" - Jeremiah 9:11 (NIV). 

Have you ever thought of a moment when Joseph late in his years sat down and looking back at his life wondered how in the world he ended up as Prime minister of Egypt! "So Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt" (Genesis 41: 41).

Here was someone who had been sold into slavery after a botched attempt on his life by his siblings (Genesis 37). And just as he thought his life was back on an even keel he was thrown in a dungeon on false accusations (Genesis 39). Then just when he seemed all but done there he was the second most important man in the great Egypt!

I like to imagine that Joseph not only reflected back with a satisfied smile how God had watched over him but also how he was then used of God. A particular matter that must have brought great pleasure to him is how he had rescued his people from a famine, saving them from perishing (Genesis 47). This must have been a life worthy lived.

Joseph's heroic life may contrast with any other that has been uplifted from a set of bad circumstances. Of course one is aware that only by God could he have gone far. But there is a difference here. Once high up there the person abandons God, goes on to live all for himself, oblivious that his being in that position is only for God's favor.

Then times comes, as with all things, when the position goes away and all the power one had to change the course of many for good, is no more ! While Joseph must have looked back with pride at using his position well such a life must find itself disappointing for loosing a great opportunity to do good, but is no more.

Sometimes God lifts us up into positions of great power to accomplish a mission of His will, just as was for Joseph. Our being in that position has little to do with us, but for God's favor. May we not loose sight of that but ever do well to fulfill God's will for us and His people.

Prayer for today: Lord Father God of Abraham, maker of heaven and earth, today I rise to give you thanks for the position you have placed me in and I pray to use it for your glory, this I pray in Jesus's name.