Genesis 41:52

            “For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.” If you’ve been discouraged because you are not where you thought you would be in your Christian life by now. Be encouraged by this verse. The closer you want to get to God, and the godlier your life becomes, the depth of your land of affliction becomes tougher. Joseph was sold to Ishmaelite traders by his brothers, he was then bought from the Ishmaelites by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, Potiphar’s wife accused Joseph of trying to rape her and was thrown into prison, forgotten by the Chief Baker who went before Pharoah, until it was time for God’s plan to be revealed and Joseph was not only released from prison but became to Second most powerful man in Egypt (Genesis 37:1-41:45). For 13 years, through all the tribulation he faced, Joseph lived such a godly life that everywhere he was, even in prison, those in charge noticed God was with Joseph and he prospered in everything he did, so they put him in charge. Joseph named his second son Ephraim saying, “For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction”. This verse should help us remember that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). When you are in a “land of affliction” do others see God in you being fruitful, bringing blessings and fighting temptation, or fruitless and miserable?