Walking With God Through CancerSample

Day 5: Finding Purpose in the Journey

Perhaps you have heard the oft‑repeated idea that the two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you discover why.

Similarly, we may ask, “Why am I here?” Each of us wants to know our purpose, yet enduring the ups and downs of cancer and treatment may obscure our view of God’s intent for our lives.

So how can our sense of purpose be reenergized when we’re facing difficulty? The life of the Old Testament patriarch Joseph may give us some clues.

Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, was favored by his father, which stirred up jealousy among his brothers. This favoritism, symbolized by the gift of a multi‑colored coat, led his brothers to conspire against him (Genesis 37:3‑4). They initially planned to kill Joseph, but they sold him into slavery, which landed him in Egypt (Genesis 37:18‑20; 27‑28). Despite his unfortunate circumstances, Joseph’s integrity and God’s favor led him to a position of responsibility in the household of Potiphar, an Egyptian official (Genesis 39:2‑5). However, after rejecting the advances of Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:11‑15), Joseph was falsely accused and imprisoned (Genesis 39:19‑20).

In prison, Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams brought him to the attention of Pharaoh, who was troubled by disturbing dreams (Genesis 41:14‑16). Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, predicting seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine (Genesis 41:29‑32). Impressed by his wisdom, Pharaoh appointed Joseph as Egypt’s second‑in‑command, overseeing surplus grain storage and distribution (Genesis 41:39‑45). During the famine, Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt to buy food but did not recognize him (Genesis 42:1‑8). After a series of interactions, Joseph revealed his identity and forgave them, attributing his hardships to God’s plan to save many lives (Genesis 45:4‑15). Ultimately, Joseph’s journey from betrayal to prominence exemplifies themes of purpose, resilience, trusting God’s plan, and forgiveness.

God worked powerfully in Joseph’s life; He is working in our lives too. God has a plan and a purpose for each of us, even as we navigate the difficult conditions of this disease. Joseph’s trust and relationship with God increased amid each circumstance he faced. He could see God’s hand at work—just as we can if we are willing to look for it.

What we experience can be painful. Yet God is with us through the pain. He is weaving a plan for us that will be for our good and the good of others if we keep Him in focus. How? By being in His Word and by praying and asking Him to help us not merely see the short term, but also the long term. Joseph remained focused on the Lord and rose from the pit to the palace.

A CLOSING THOUGHT

Just as God had a plan for Joseph, guiding him from betrayal and hardship to a position of power where he could save many lives, He also has a unique and purposeful plan for each of us. Despite our challenges, we can trust that God works behind the scenes to bring about His good and perfect will.

REFLECTION

Read Psalm 37:23

• In what ways do you think having plans is good for you?
• How should the Lord’s counsel affect the plans you’ve made?