Beyond the Weekend

May 18 | Heal

May 18, 2018

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Joseph named his firstborn Manasseh and said, “It is because God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household.” The second son he named Ephraim and said, “It is because God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering.” Genesis 41:51-52

Read: Genesis 41:50-52

Listen: Genesis 41

TODAY’S MESSAGE

It’s been 22 years since Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers. As evidenced by the names he gives his sons, God has been working to heal Joseph’s heart. It must have been a long and painful process. No longer finding his identity in his pain or as a victim, Joseph recognizes God’s faithfulness and goodness.

It is so easy to be defined by our pain—in some ways almost requiring it. Being a victim can become our identity. We cling tenaciously to it. We can demand that others recognize it as we hang onto it much longer than we need to.

When we do, we forfeit a willingness to heal. We need a new identity—and the freedom and blessing it provides. That’s what Jesus offers. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Often the first step in healing is to believe that Jesus is enough no matter how undesirable our situation might be. Use the words of Hillsong’s “Christ is Enough” to remind you of this powerful truth that He is enough!


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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