When Dreams Disappear: Finding God in Life’s Darkest Moments
Life often presents us with unexpected challenges and painful realities, such as the death of a loved one, painful breakups, personal failures, or betrayal by friends. In these moments, we often find ourselves asking, “God, where are you?”
Understanding Joseph’s Story: A Family Divided
Genesis 37 introduces us to Joseph’s deeply dysfunctional family. At age of 17, Joseph was one of 12 brothers in a complex family structure with multiple mothers. His father Jacob’s obvious favoritism, demonstrated by gifting Joseph a special multi-colored robe, created deep divisions and hatred among the brothers.
How Does Favoritism Impact Family Relationships?
The special robe given to Joseph wasn’t just about colors; it represented a dramatic elevation in status. Despite being the 11th son, Joseph was essentially promoted to first place in his father’s eyes. This favoritism, combined with Joseph’s arrogant attitude, fueled intense hatred from his brothers.
What Happens When Dreams Lead to Disaster?
Joseph’s prophetic dreams, while divine in origin, were shared with poor timing and pride. He dreamed his family would bow down to him, a revelation that only intensified his brothers’ hatred. This led to a devastating chain of events:
His brothers plotted to kill him
He was thrown into a pit
He was sold into slavery
His father was deceived about his fate
Where is God When Everything Goes Wrong?
Even in Joseph’s darkest moments, God remained present and active. While Joseph’s immediate circumstances seemed hopeless, God was positioning him for a greater purpose, one that would eventually save thousands of lives.
Key Lessons from Joseph’s Story
Life is unfair and full of tragedy
God remains connected to us even in hard times
What others mean for evil, God can use for good
Faith isn’t about denying feelings of abandonment but choosing to believe God is working even when evidence suggests otherwise.
Life Application
When facing difficult circumstances, remember these truths:
God’s presence doesn’t depend on our feelings
He walks with us through storms, not around them
Our current circumstances don’t define our final destination
Ask yourself:
Where do I feel God has disappeared in my life?
How might God be working behind the scenes in my current struggles?
Am I building my faith on God’s true character or on expectations of comfort and ease?
Challenge for the week: Identify one area where you feel God is absent. Each day, intentionally look for small signs of His presence and write them down, remembering that even when dreams disappear, God never does.
