Devotionals

Grace Is Not Always Recognized

by Robert [Bob] Schaetzle Sr. 
01/20/25
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                        Grace Is Not Always Recognized
                   By Robert Schaetzle

And he said to his brothers, “My money has been put back; here it is in the mouth of my sack!” At this their hearts failed them, and they turned trembling to one another, saying, “What is this that God has done to us?” Genesis 42:28 RSV

When Joseph encountered his brothers, there truly was ‘a grace awakening.’ A situation where Joseph showed kindness measured out to his brothers without understanding. Joseph’s brothers were afraid, they would be accused of theft when they returned to Egypt. They had reason to be fearful with shame, for what they did to Joseph.

The many times I’ve read this account of history past, I find God is never finished with me, to understand the importance of the situation. No, they were not spies as Joseph alluded, but the voice of truth was going to set them free.

The events of Genesis 45 brought the brothers back, it must be recognized as the result of grace and God’s sufficiency.

  And Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph; is my father still alive?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed at his presence. Genesis 45:3

God demonstrates his purpose through our adversities. God brought Joseph’s brothers before him, to preserve a remnant. To recognize God’s promise to Abraham, and  demonstrate God’s ability and grace at work.

When I reflect back through my years of growing and learning, God was before me through every circumstance! The events and people were there to assist and even rescue me. Learning God’s sufficiency and grace. Far greater than anything my human reasoning or will, could provide.

Those ‘Laborers of Love,’ God sent for me to understand, ‘Greater is He who is in me than he who is of the world….’ (1 John 4:4)

Father, as we daily commit our work to you… you will indeed establish our plans and way of escape, as you rescued Jacob.

Robert serves in a Sharing and Caring Ministry to strengthen and encourage God’s presence in us