…But God
Each of us has a story to tell. Do you see your story as a God story? It’s probably not scripted or cast as you might desire, but God’s hand is in it.
…but God. Two seemingly simple yet powerful words. Those two words expose God’s mighty work in overturning normal progression, His complete uniqueness, or the invisible truth. The scriptures from Genesis to Revelation are peppered with instances of “but God.” In fact, one person’s entire life was a “but God” story: Joseph. Those two words appear seven times in his lifetime.* Joseph’s life can serve as a powerful reminder of God’s ever-present help in our lives.
Many are familiar with the overarching storyline of Joseph’s life. His story can be found in Genesis chapters 37 and 39-50. His very existence appears to be a “but God” arrangement. His mother, Rachel, was barren (Genesis 30:1-2). But God listened to her prayers and enabled her to conceive and give birth to Joseph (Genesis 30:22-24). Let’s look into the seven occurrences of “but God” in the life of Joseph.
1
The first moment doesn’t come until Joseph is in an Egyptian prison after being falsely accused.
Genesis 39:20-21 – Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined. But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.
There are times in our lives where our world comes crashing down around us. Those are dark times. But remember, even in the darkest and most difficult times, God is with you. You are not alone.
2
The second occurs as Joseph is brought before Pharaoh to interpret his dreams.
Genesis 41:16 – “I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.”
It is important that we realize and accept our limitations and God given gifts and abilities. God honors those who are humble and give Him praise and recognition.
3 & 4
Our third and fourth “but God” appear together, when Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers.
Genesis 45:6-8 – For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing or reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt.
God knows all; past, future, and present. There will be hard times, but look to God to see His provision in the midst of troubles. God’s ways are not our ways. He works through people and situations to shape and prepare us for His purposes.
5
Joseph’s family has been living in Egypt for 17 years. His father, Israel, is 147 years old.
Genesis 48:21 – Then Israel said to Joseph, “I am about to die, but God will be with you and take you back to the land of your fathers.
What a message for every parent to pass on to their children! Don’t wait to teach this truth. As parents, we are only here for a time. Our children need to know that God will be with them, even if it seems like they’ve been abandoned. God is the only true rock that holds fixed through the ages.
6
The next “but God” pops up shortly afterwards. Joseph’s brothers are concerned that he will seek revenge now that their father is dead.
Genesis 50:20 – You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
Evil is rampant in this world. But God is bigger. He will not be bested.
7
Finally, Joseph himself, the protector and provider of his extended family, is about to die.
Genesis 50:24 – Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am about to die. But God will surely come to your aid and take you up out of this land to the land he promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”
As he is about to die, Joseph has confidence that God will take care of those he loves. Joseph realizes its not about him. As God has watched over his life, He will continue to look after and help His people.
Take a moment, right now, to think about your story. Can you find any “but God” moments? Some may be easy to identify, others may take some thought. Write them down. Share your stories! Make a point to share at least one this week. Others need to hear how God has been working. Not sure where to start? You can share a “but God” story in the comment area below! I can’t wait to read yours!
Here are some other “but God” verses to look into throughout the week.
What is exposed in each of these “but God” moments?
Genesis 3:8-9; Ephesians 2:1-7
Jonah 2:5-6; Romans 5:7-8
I Corinthians 3:6-7; 12:18-20
Psalm 9:18; 10:14
Jeremiah 10:11-12; I Corinthians 1:25-29
*In the NIV.
Such a bad few days. Yet I trust that God is with me. I also know that the deceiver it trying to chip away at my strength but God will keep me strong! Reading your blog & the scriptures you provided. I thank you for those. But God’s words strengten me & make the devil shake in fear!!
Amen! There IS power in His word. It strengthens us and settles our feet and minds on firm ground. Praying for you, dear sister!
You are so right rhat everyone has a story regarding God & the but God moments. My biggest God moment was when my husband died. Although angry I was tired & scared. It had been about 2 weeks with maybe 3 hours a night of sleep. I so remember telling God I’m so tired & am scared. I began to feel a warmth circle around my body. A warmth of peace & serenity. I slept 14 hours strait that night & I contribute that to God. I dont question God anymore but I do know since that time I have become a much stronger woman & have come across a few women who have lost their spouses & they have asked me so many questions. I feel this was how God has used a sad time for me to be able to give others some peace. I think of the verse in 2 Corinthians 1:4 – Who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
God does use us for his purpose & knows what we need as we put out complete trust in Him. All of these are the but God moments.
What a beautiful experience in the midst of anger, exhaustion, and fear. Thank you, Susan, for sharing such a precious moment. What a loving and caring God we serve.