When You Face Unfairness

 By: Paula Short

"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." —Genesis 39:20-21—NIV

Joseph's story is one of repeated unfairness. First, his brothers throw him down into a dark ditch. I picture panic and fear running through him. Can you imagine what must have been going through his head as he heard his family offhandedly deliberating on how to kill him?

When he's pulled out of the pit, he's taken to a foreign land and forced into slavery. But Joseph works hard in Egypt. His work ethic catches his master's eye, and it isn't long before he's second in command.

But unfortunately, his job comes with a snag. His master's wife now wants him. She purposely arranges time alone together and tries to seduce him. It's not so much what she says as the way she acts, purposefully draping herself over the desk to reveal a bit of cleavage. And maybe a pouting look sent his way as he left the office.

When Joseph rejects her, he's the one accused of wrongdoing! Now he's in prison, serving time for a crime he never committed. At this point, no one would fault Joseph if he decided to become bitter. He's already endured so much unfairness. 

But through it all, Joseph trusts that God is working a plan. Years later, when he meets with his brothers again, he explains:

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." —Genesis 50:20—NIV

As a prisoner, Joseph could have seen his situation as hopeless. Instead, he did his best with each small task given to him. His diligence and positive attitude were soon noticed, and he was promoted.

It's difficult when we're faced with unfairness. Perhaps a co-worker lied about you. Maybe someone is verbally abusive when you're alone but charming to everyone else. 

Whatever your unfairness, you can trust that God is still in control. He is not the author of evil, but He promises to redeem these terrible moments and use them for your good and His glory.

Are you facing a seemingly hopeless predicament? Join me in following Joseph's example by taking each small task and doing your best.

Remember how God turned Joseph's situation around. He will see your efforts and can reverse even overwhelming odds.

Pray,

God, I struggle. I want to be bitter and angry. This isn't fair. It's like sandpaper against my heart, and I can't take anymore. Don't let this consume me. Redeem the evil in my life and set me free from this pain. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Photo by Hector Ramon Perez on Unsplash