Psalm 18:30-32 are some of my favorite verses in the entire Bible. As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. For who is God save the Lord? or who is a rock save our God? It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. I specifically love how it is bookended with “As for God, his way is perfect…and [He] maketh my way perfect.” (side note, this Psalm is repeated in 2 Samuel 22)

But what about when the way seems like it ISN’T perfect? Imagine how Joseph felt leading up to Genesis 41. He’s been sold into slavery, raised to authority, tempted, unjustly imprisoned, forgotten, and then raised to a place of extreme responsibility. Talk about a roller coaster in getting to this point! Now his brothers come and he has a decision to make: Revenge or restoration? Obviously, knowing the whole story, it’s easy for us to see what God was doing, but I’m sure it was difficult the entire way for Joseph. Even as the number 2 ruler in Egypt, can you imagine the stress level? And then you are confronted with those who wronged you…how would you react?

John was in a different predicament. Herod recognized that he was well liked by the people, but hated by others (his wife specifically!) So when Herod promised his daughter a birthday present, you can understand how he was torn when she asked for John’s head on a platter. Sure doesn’t look like a good end for John, the fore-runner of the Messiah.

Both John and Joseph faced situations that didn’t look good. In the moment, I’m sure many around them felt the same way. But through Joseph’s trials, Israel was saved from starvation. Through John’s life and death, many were pointed to Christ, which resulted in their salvation from sin and its penalty.

God’s way is perfect…ALWAYS. His Word has been tested and tried, and been found faithful. He is a protector to all those that trust in Him. That doesn’t always mean physically, or in the way we would like. Joseph faced great physical difficulties. John lost his life. There is NO ONE the Lord who is God, no matter what they claim. There is no shelter from the ultimate storm but Him.

He makes my way perfect. “He knoweth the way of each path that I take. For when I am tried and purified, I shall come forth as gold.”

Today, you probably don’t face slavery. You probably won’t be beheaded and have your head served up on a silver platter. So what circumstance are you facing today? Is God strong enough, wise enough, and sovereign enough to work through that for your good and His glory? Absolutely! Are you going to see that result today? Maybe, but probably not. We must trust Him regardless of how much sense it makes to us, knowing that he sees the big picture. Just like we can see the big picture of Joseph’s story, that’s how God sees everything…and more. Whatever you’re facing today, trust God!