July 26: The Blessing of Formation
In the daily hustle of life, it’s easy to misunderstand the “in-between” seasons, those times of waiting and wondering. Yet, these seasons are often the places where God’s presence is most powerfully at work, forming us for greater purposes. Goshen was such a place for Jacob’s family—a protected land of provision and growth during a time of great famine. Similarly, our personal Goshen seasons are where God creates strength through perseverance, character through trials, and hope through the experience of His faithfulness.The world tells us to avoid discomfort and to seek instant resolution. However, Romans 5:3-4 illuminates a higher calling: “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” What the world sees as delay, God defines as development—a crucial distinction for those seeking spiritual maturity. Like Joseph, who spent years in Egypt before stepping into his calling, we must trust that God’s hand is intricately working in our current circumstances to prepare us for His promises.
As you navigate your Goshen season, welcome God’s formative work. It’s often in the unseen details of everyday life that our deepest growth takes place. Embrace patience, lean into faith, and remember that every moment you spend in God’s presence is a moment of profound blessing and preparation for what lies ahead.
Biblical Points
Endurance in Suffering
Scripture: “More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance.” — Romans 5:3 (ESV)
Reflection: Paul urges us to embrace our hardships, seeing them not as obstacles, but as divine tools crafting endurance. This endurance becomes the backbone of a growing faith, equipping us to face future challenges with greater resilience in God’s strength.Character through Trials
Scripture: “And endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” — Romans 5:4 (ESV)
Reflection: Our trials shape us, forging a character grounded in the truth and love of God. Each difficulty is not merely endured but woven into the fabric of who we are, leading us to a hope that is firm and unwavering, a hope anchored in God’s promises.Faithful Formation
Scripture: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
Reflection: God fashions us with intentionality and precision. Even in seasons of waiting, He is active, preparing us for good works. Trust that you are created purposefully, intricately formed for His kingdom work.Reflection Questions
1. Why do you think God often chooses suffering or challenges as tools for our spiritual formation?
2. What areas of your life are currently in a “Goshen season,” and how can you actively participate in God’s formative work there?
3. How can embracing endurance and character development lead you to a deeper hope in your daily walk with Christ?Memory Verse
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” — Romans 5:3–4 (ESV)
Closing Encouragement and Prayer
May you find deep encouragement in knowing that God is lovingly at work in your “Goshen” season. Rejoice in your divine formation, trusting that each moment spent in His presence is preparing you for a vibrant future in His kingdom. As you grow in humility, rely on His strength, and build hope, know that you are exactly where He desires you to be.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the seasons of formation that shape my heart to reflect Yours. Help me to find joy in the process, to trust Your perfect timeline, and to walk faithfully in the works You have prepared for me. Mold me into a vessel of enduring hope. Amen.- 0 Replies
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