Charles Stanley (August 11, 2025) Daily Devotional: The Storms of Life.
Trials reveal what we really believe and give us the opportunity to deepen our faith.
Genesis 50:15-21 - When Joseph's brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, ``What if Joseph bears a grudge against us and pays us back in full for all the wrong which we did to him!" 16 So they sent a message to Joseph, saying, ``Your father charged before he died, saying, 17 `Thus you shall say to Joseph, ``Please forgive, I beg you, the transgression of your brothers and their sin, for they did you wrong."' And now, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father." And Joseph wept when they spoke to him. 18 Then his brothers also came and fell down before him and said, ``Behold, we are your servants." 19 But Joseph said to them, ``Do not be afraid, for am I in God's place? 20 ``As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. 21 ``So therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones." So he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.
Yesterday, we saw that God wants us to focus on Him in times of trouble. As we do, we’ll discover that during our “storms,” He is doing important spiritual work in these three areas:
Beliefs. When circumstances are out of our control, what we truly believe comes to the fore—the depth of our faith in God’s character and promises will become evident, as will any doubts or uncertainties. For example, Joseph, after many trials, revealed strong belief by saying God’s intentions for the trouble were good (Gen. 50:20). Though at times we won’t succeed—like Peter, whose fear led to denying Christ (John 18:25-27)—we should think of adversity as an opportunity to deepen our faith and grow.
Transformation. As God’s children, we are to live in a way that displays Christ’s character. The heavenly Father can use challenging seasons to transform us into His Son’s image.
Comfort. Our Father brings us consolation and asks that we share with others the comfort we’ve received (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
Difficulties can come from our own mistakes, schemes of the Enemy, or the hurtful actions of others. They can even be ordained by God. Regardless of the source, our Father works in them to benefit us and to bless others. How can you testify to His goodness in a hurting world?
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 9-11
