better...

‘If the LORD does not change the place for the better, He will make us the better in the place.’ - Spurgeon   

Better – wherever we happen to find ourselves. What a comforting thought. The LORD molds us and shapes us, developing Christ-like character within us, conforming us into the image of His Son – through life’s situations.     

Joseph experienced this. After receiving two promising dreams from the LORD, he endured thirteen years in circumstances which I am certain he would have loved for the LORD to make better. Instead, God made him better in and through the situation.

‘They bruised his feet with fetters

and placed his neck in an iron collar.

Until the time came to fulfill his dreams,

the Lord tested Joseph’s character.

Then Pharaoh sent for him and set him free;

the ruler of the nation opened his prison door.

Joseph was put in charge of all the king’s household;

he became ruler over all the king’s possessions.

He could instruct the king’s aides as he pleased

and teach the king’s advisers.’

Psalm 105:18-22NLT

Therefore …

‘Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.’ James 1:2-4 MSG

‘He knows the way that I take [He has concern for it, appreciates, and pays attention to it]. When He has tried me, I shall come forth as refined gold [pure and luminous].‘ Job 23:10 AMP