Only One You

Have you ever complained about where you are in life right now? I hate my neighborhood. My neighbors are so weird. . . . I can’t stand where I work. There are certain people I work with who really irritate me. . . . I don’t like this about my life. . . .

Did you ever stop and think about the fact that God has put you where you are for such a time as this? It is providence. If you have suffered in life, God can take your hurt and pain and use it to make you a godly man or woman for such a time as this.

A classic example is Joseph. After he was sold into slavery by his brothers, he was purchased by a man named Potiphar. Joseph was so hardworking and godly that he was put in charge of Potiphar’s house. Potiphar’s wife, however, wanted to seduce Joseph. When he refused her repeated advances, she falsely accused him of rape.

Consequently, Joseph was sent to prison, where he suffered for a long time. But through God’s providence, he was released, stood before the king, and interpreted his dream. The king rewarded Joseph with the second-most powerful position in the kingdom.

Eventually, Joseph came face to face with his brothers again. It could have been the ultimate story of payback. Instead, it was the ultimate story of forgiveness.

There is only one you. There is one person walking this earth with your exact heritage. The precise events and sufferings of your life have brought you to this hour. God is aware of it. He has been preparing, equipping, and allowing what has been happening in your life to get you ready. He has something for you to say. He has something for you to do.