“The book “In His Steps” may have earned less money for its author than any other bestseller in history. Charles M. Sheldon wrote it in 1896, and it was first published by a religious weekly magazine. The magazine’s publisher failed to meet copyright regulations, so Sheldon lost legal ownership of the book. Scores of publishers then sold millions of copies, and the author couldn’t claim any royalties.
Forty years after Charles Sheldon “lost” his book, he said, “I am very thankful that owing to the defective copyright, the book has had a larger reading on account of the great number of publishers.”
Joseph too experienced losses. He was sold into slavery by his brothers (Genesis 37 v 20-27). Then he lost his position in Potiphar’s household because of a false accusation (Genesis 39 v 1-20). And yet he did not blame anyone. Instead, he recognised that God had orchestrated the events of his life for the eventual good of others.”
Sometimes it’s very hard to see a good outcome from what is happening in our lives. We may struggle with events such as loss of income or ill health but just as we can’t see the bigger picture, we can rest assured that God does see it and it is part of His plan. How often do we see people who have suffered a major loss coming together to support one another?
We recently had a Zoom Bible Study on the second chapter of James. One of the comments was that we need to be kind to each other. Genesis 50 v 21, when Joseph is still talking to his brothers says, “Do not be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.” So, he reassured them by speaking kindly to them.” Let’s thank God that there are many people who are kind to each other as we remember that what appears to be human tragedy is often the seed of divine triumph.