The story of Jacob’s 11th son, Joseph, is one of the most inspiring stories I have ever read. As a Christian school teacher, I often used him as an illustration about God’s sovereignty and grace in our lives. Recently I reread the Genesis account about how his brothers sold him to the Ishmaelite caravan, who carried him to Egypt and sold him to Potiphar. I read how Joseph progressed in Potiphar’s household, was tempted by Potiphar’s wife, and was unjustly imprisoned. When I reached the part about Joseph being thrown into the Pharaoh’s dungeon, I thought about how unfair it all seemed. As I read on, however, three words stood out to me, “But the LORD…” When the Bible says, “But the LORD…” or “But God…” we know something is about to change – whether the circumstance, or our perspective. In the case of Joseph’s story, my perspective changed from, “This is unjust,” to, “God has a plan.” I also saw Joseph’s circumstances change. The prison keeper promoted Joseph, putting him in charge of the rest of the prisoners. God advanced Joseph and gave him rank in the prison. Because he was a leader for the other prisoners, the butler and baker trusted him with the interpretation of their dreams. As a result, the butler, after two years, recommended Joseph to the troubled Pharaoh. Joseph interpreted his dreams, was advanced to a position of authority, out-ranked only by Pharaoh himself, and saved Egypt and the surrounding countries from a dreadful famine. ![]() There are other places in the Bible where we see the words, “But the LORD…” or “But God…” or something similar. In I Samuel 23, we find part of the story where young David was running for his life from King Saul. In verse 14 we read, “And David abode in the wilderness in strong holds, and remained in a mountain in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand.” The life of the next appointed king, chosen by God Himself, was being threatened. However the words, “But God…” bring reassurance of our Lord’s protection in this, and other, circumstances. In Psalm 73:26, Asaph talked about how weak he was in his humanity, then goes on to say, “But God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.” We are reminded that, though we are frail, almighty God gives us the strength we need. In the book of Jeremiah, chapter 20, verses 10 and 11, we read that the prophet was being persecuted and his enemies were waiting for him to fall into the snares they had set for him. In this circumstance we see the prophet confidently proclaim these words, “But the Lord is with me as a mighty terrible one: therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail: they shall be greatly ashamed; for they shall not prosper: their everlasting confusion shall never be forgotten.” Here we see God – Defender and Champion in times of persecution and testing. We face battles, hardships, and temptations that test our faith and resolve, but God fights for those who let Him, and He is the Victor. ![]() In Matthew 19, Jesus was talking with His disciples about how difficult it is for a man rich in worldly goods to be saved. His disciples asked Him, "Who then, can be saved?" Jesus looked at them and replied, in verse 26, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” God is infinite and can do what we perceive to be impossible, including being the Savior of one who is used to relying on himself and his wealth. Ephesians 2 tells us that we were dead in sin, but God in His mercy raised us up to sit with Him. Romans 5 reminds us that, even for a righteous man one will hardly give his life, “but God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” We are sinful, unworthy, and unable to save ourselves, but Christ, in His amazing love and mercy, gave His life for our unrighteous souls! He paid the price for our reconciliation to God. Conclusion “But the LORD was with Joseph…” gives me reassurance that God is with me and my brethren in the darkest of times. It changes my perspective from, “I am a victim of circumstances beyond my control,” to, “I am in the center of God’s will and He is always in control.” “But God did not deliver him (David) into his (Saul’s) hand.” reminds me, not only of God’s sovereignty, but His protection. “But the LORD is with me as a mighty, terrible one,” keeps me mindful of the Champion who fights for me. However, the most comforting of all is, “But God commendeth His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” We are born into sin and bound for hell, but God has provided the way for us to spend eternity with Him. I encourage you to look at your past and think about these two words, “But God” and see how He worked through, or changed, your circumstances. Then I want you to look at your current situation with those same two words in mind, and let Him change your perspective. Finally, as you continue throughout your life, hold in your heart the hope that these words bring, “But God…” What questions, concerns, or comments do you have? I would love to hear from you in the comment section or by email. You can reach me at [email protected]. If you like this post or found it helpful, please share it so it can help others as well. If you would like to receive updates when I write new posts, please join my Facebook page.
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AuthorKayti grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Hobe Sound Bible College in Hobe Sound, Florida, graduating 2013. She taught four years at a private Christian school on the west side of Indianapolis. She also coached a girls volleyball team for two years. She is now a full-time caregiver for her wonderful grandmother, Ruth. Archives
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