Recognizing God’s Miraculous Hand
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Finding His Presence in the Everyday and the Extraordinary
I’ll never forget the day my grandpa passed away. In the depths of my grief, I experienced God’s miraculous hand in a way that forever changed my perspective. There was sorrow, yes, but there was also an unshakable sense of God’s presence—like a warm embrace I couldn’t see but could undeniably feel. God’s love, woven through the events of those days, reminded me that His miraculous hand isn’t just about parting seas or raising the dead. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet comfort, the perfectly timed phone call, or the peace that passes understanding.
God’s Miraculous Hand in Storytelling and in Life
As a writer, I love weaving God’s miraculous hand into the lives of my characters. These moments of divine intervention, big or small, remind us of His care and faithfulness. One story close to my heart is From Dust and Ashes, where a woman discovers hope and redemption amid the devastation of World War II. The same God who showed up for her fictional journey shows up in our real lives, leading us to healing and new beginnings.
Miracles in Our Everyday Lives
Sometimes, we think miracles are reserved for Bible times or extraordinary circumstances. But God is actively working every day.
Psalm 77:14 says, “You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples.”
This verse reminds me that His miraculous hand isn’t confined to parting the Red Sea—it’s in the moments we recognize His power and presence today.
When Miracles Look Different Than We Expect
I’ll be honest—sometimes we don’t get the miracle we prayed for. But here’s the truth: God’s greater good often comes through the trials we endure, not the outcomes we imagine.
Romans 8:28 reassures us, “In all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Even when the answer to our prayers is “not yet” or “not this way,” God’s plans are always for our ultimate good.
How to Recognize God’s Hand in Your Life
Here are three ways to spot God’s divine intervention in your story:
- Through Answered Prayers
Sometimes, God answers our prayers in ways we don’t expect—or even ask for. That “no” or detour might just be His way of guiding you to something far better than you could imagine.
- Try This: Journal your prayers and look back later to see how God’s hand has worked, even in ways you didn’t anticipate.
- Try This: Journal your prayers and look back later to see how God’s hand has worked, even in ways you didn’t anticipate.
- In the Midst of Trials
In our darkest moments, God’s light shines the brightest. Look for Him in the comfort He provides, the people He sends your way, and the strength He gives you to keep going.
- Try This: When trials come, pause and ask, “Where do I see God in this moment?” Write down your answers.
- By Reflecting on Your Journey
Hindsight often reveals God’s fingerprints on our lives. The closed doors, unexpected opportunities, and even heartbreaks are often where His hand has been working all along.
- Try This: Set aside time to reflect on past seasons. Where can you now see God’s miraculous intervention?
A Prayer for Recognizing God’s Hand
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your miraculous hand in our lives. Help us to see Your divine intervention, especially when it’s not immediately clear. Strengthen our faith to trust in Your greater good, even when we long for miracles that seem far away. Remind us of Your love, grace, and constant presence in every season.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflect and Share
- Can you think of a time when you experienced God’s miraculous intervention? How did it shape your faith?
- How do you feel God’s presence during times of trial?
- What steps can you take to be more aware of God’s guidance in your daily life?
Through every joy and challenge, may we keep our eyes on the One whose hand is always at work, guiding, comforting, and redeeming. His love is miraculous, His plans are perfect, and His presence is constant. Let’s live with gratitude for His divine intervention in our stories.
Call to Action: Have you experienced God’s miraculous hand in your life? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to celebrate His work with you!
~Tricia
Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
January 13
Genesis 36: 1 – 19, 1 Cronicles 1:35 – 37, Genesis 36:20 – 30, 1 Chronicles 1:38 – 42, Genesis 36:31 – 43, 1 Chronicles 1:43 – 2:2
Descendants and Their Lasting Impact
In today’s readings, we delve into the genealogies of Esau and Jacob, exploring the profound lessons they offer about the choices we make and the legacies we leave behind.
Esau’s Lineage and Its Impact
Genesis 36 chronicles the descendants of Esau, who settled in the hill country of Seir. Among his lineage, the name Amalek stands out—a name that would come to symbolize opposition to God’s people throughout the Bible. The Amalekites appear repeatedly as adversaries, from the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness to the reign of King Saul and even in the story of Esther.
Esau’s choices, including his disregard for his birthright and his marriage to women outside his family’s faith, echo through generations. His lineage represents a departure from the covenant promises of God, highlighting the enduring consequences of personal decisions.
Jacob and the Twelve Tribes of Israel
In contrast, Jacob’s descendants—the founders of the Twelve Tribes of Israel—become central to God’s redemptive plan. Recapped in 1 Chronicles 2:1-2, this lineage carries forward the covenant promises. Each son’s story contributes to the grand narrative of God’s chosen people.
While Jacob’s journey was far from perfect, his life was marked by repentance, perseverance, and ultimately alignment with God’s purposes. His descendants play pivotal roles in shaping the history and spiritual identity of Israel.
The Significance of Genealogies
While genealogies may feel tedious to read, they are integral to understanding the Bible’s overarching narrative. Each name represents a life, a story, and a contribution to God’s plan. They remind us that God works through families and generations, weaving His purposes through the lives of His people.
Word of the Day: Descendants
Definition: Those who come after, carrying forward a legacy of physical, spiritual, or cultural inheritance.
In today’s readings, the concept of descendants takes center stage. Esau’s lineage reflects choices that led to separation from God’s covenant promises, while Jacob’s descendants carry forward the divine plan. This contrast underscores how our choices today shape the spiritual and cultural legacy we pass on.
Lessons from Esau and Jacob
- Align Choices with God’s Guidance: Esau’s decisions, particularly his disregard for his birthright, remind us of the consequences of prioritizing earthly desires over spiritual values.
- Recognize the Power of Legacy: Our actions and attitudes leave a lasting imprint on those who come after us, shaping their spiritual and cultural journeys.
- Embrace God’s Plan for Redemption: Despite mistakes, like Jacob, we can realign with God’s purpose, trusting that He can redeem our failures for His glory.
- Value Genealogies as Stories of Faith: Each name in the genealogies represents God’s faithfulness across generations. They remind us of the larger story we are part of in Christ.
As we reflect on Esau’s and Jacob’s descendants, let’s consider how our choices and actions today will influence future generations. What legacy are we building, and how are we aligning it with God’s plan?
January 14
Genesis 37:1 – 38:30, 1 Chronicles 2:3-6, 8, Genesis 39:1 – 23
Dedication Amidst Trials
Jacob’s return home ushers in a significant chapter in his life, one filled with family complexities, dreams of destiny, and God’s overarching presence. Through the lens of dedication, we explore the trials and triumphs that shape the lives of Joseph and Judah’s family.
Joseph: The Favored Son and Catalyst for Change
Jacob’s deep affection for Joseph, born of his beloved Rachel, manifests in a splendid coat—a symbol of favor that fuels his brothers’ jealousy. Joseph’s dreams, which foretell his brothers bowing to him, only exacerbate this tension. Shared without humility, these visions widen the growing rift in the family.
The jealousy culminates when Joseph is sent to check on his brothers. Some conspire to kill him but relent, selling him to Ishmaelite traders instead. To cover their betrayal, they stain Joseph’s robe with blood, deceiving Jacob into mourning the loss of his favorite son.
Judah and Tamar: A Story of Redemption Amidst Tragedy
Meanwhile, Judah’s decision to marry a Canaanite woman leads to tragic outcomes. His sons, deemed wicked by God, die prematurely, leaving their widow, Tamar, in despair. Tamar’s bold and deceptive actions result in the birth of twins, Perez and Zerah, a narrative reminiscent of Jacob and Esau.
Joseph’s Journey: A Testament to Dedication
Despite his betrayal and enslavement, Joseph thrives in Potiphar’s household, rising to a position of trust. However, Potiphar’s wife’s false accusations lead to his imprisonment. Even in prison, Joseph’s dedication to God and his duties earns him favor with the warden, demonstrating that his character remains steadfast regardless of circumstances.
Word of the Day: Dedication
Definition: The quality of being committed to a task or purpose.
Joseph’s life exemplifies dedication—his unwavering commitment to honor God, even in adversity. His refusal to sin against God when tempted by Potiphar’s wife underscores his deep devotion and faith.
Lessons from Joseph’s Story
- Commitment to Integrity: Joseph’s refusal to compromise his values, even in the face of false accusations, reminds us of the importance of staying true to our faith.
- Faithfulness in Trials: Whether in Potiphar’s house or prison, Joseph’s dedication to his tasks reflects a life rooted in trust in God’s plan.
- God’s Dedication to His Purpose: Beyond Joseph’s admirable qualities, his story highlights God’s unwavering commitment to His plan for humanity. From Abraham to Joseph, we see God’s presence guiding, protecting, and fulfilling His promises.
- Seeing the Bigger Picture: Joseph’s trials weren’t just about his personal journey but were part of God’s greater narrative—a reminder that our struggles often serve a larger purpose.
Joseph’s life challenges us to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in God’s presence and plan, no matter the trials we face. As we reflect on his journey, let’s seek to emulate his dedication and remember that God’s faithfulness undergirds every chapter of our lives.
January 15
Genesis 40, Genesis 35:28-29, Genesis 41
Pegged for God’s Purpose
The story of Joseph is a profound journey of identity, transformation, and divine purpose. In today’s chapters, we witness his resilience in prison, his divine gift of interpretation, and his extraordinary rise to power—all pointing to God’s sovereign plan and Joseph’s unwavering faith.
Joseph in Prison: Dreams and Divine Insight
While imprisoned, Joseph encounters Pharaoh’s chief cup-bearer and baker, both troubled by mysterious dreams. Joseph’s faith shines as he confidently declares, “Interpreting dreams is God’s business. Go ahead and tell me your dreams” (Genesis 40:8). His interpretations—predicting the cup-bearer’s restoration and the baker’s demise—are not only accurate but also pivotal in God’s unfolding plan for Joseph’s life.
Forgotten by Man, Remembered by God
Though Joseph pleads with the cup-bearer to remember him, he remains forgotten for two more years. Yet God’s timing is perfect. When Pharaoh is plagued by unsettling dreams, Joseph is remembered and summoned. His humility is evident as he tells Pharaoh, “It is beyond my power to do this. But God can tell you what it means and set you at ease.”
Joseph’s Rise to Power: A Divine Appointment
Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams as a prophecy of seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Beyond interpretation, he devises a plan to store surplus grain, demonstrating wisdom and leadership. Pharaoh recognizes Joseph’s divine insight, elevating him to second-in-command. In a striking moment, Pharaoh adorns Joseph with his signet ring, symbolizing his authority and God’s providence.
Word of the Day: Pegged
Definition: To label or identify someone in a particular way.
Throughout his life, Joseph was ‘pegged’ in many ways—favored son, accused slave, imprisoned man. Yet the label that ultimately mattered was the one God placed on him: a leader, a preserver of life, and a fulfillment of divine purpose.
Embracing Our God-Designed Identity
- Faithful in All Circumstances: Like Joseph, we are called to remain faithful, whether in moments of trial or triumph, trusting that God’s plans are at work.
- God’s Labels Matter Most: Society may peg us by external appearances or achievements, but our true worth is found in how God sees us.
- Dreams as Divine Direction: Joseph’s dreams were not youthful fantasies but glimpses of God’s purpose for his life. Let’s seek to understand the visions God places in our hearts.
- Preparation for Purpose: Joseph’s diligence in every role—whether as a slave, prisoner, or ruler—prepared him for his ultimate calling. Are we ready to dedicate ourselves to the tasks God places before us?
Joseph’s story reminds us that no matter how others label us, God’s purpose prevails. As we reflect on Joseph’s journey, let’s ask ourselves: Are we living into the identity God has designed for us?
January 16
Genesis 42:1 – 45:15
From Suffering to Salvation
In today’s reading, we witness the unfolding of one of the most emotionally charged narratives in Genesis: Joseph’s journey from suffering to salvation. His story is a profound testimony to God’s sovereignty and His ability to transform trials into triumph.
Joseph: The Unrecognized Savior
Amidst a severe famine, Jacob sends his sons to Egypt in search of food. They unknowingly stand before Joseph, their brother, whom they had sold into slavery years earlier. Joseph, now a powerful leader, recognizes them, but his brothers fail to identify him.
This moment brims with emotional complexity. Joseph, though deeply hurt by their betrayal, chooses to conceal his identity for the time being. His actions—demanding that Benjamin be brought to Egypt and keeping Simeon as collateral—force his brothers to confront their guilt and regret.
Word of the Day: Salvation
Definition: Deliverance from harm, ruin, or loss; in a spiritual sense, the deliverance of humanity from sin and its consequences.
Joseph embodies salvation in this narrative. His foresight and leadership not only save Egypt from famine but also preserve God’s chosen people. This story foreshadows the ultimate act of salvation through Jesus Christ, reminding us of God’s unending grace and providence.
Lessons from Joseph’s Journey
- Trust God’s Timing: Like Joseph’s rise from slavery to power, our trials may be part of God’s preparation for a greater purpose.
- Embrace Forgiveness: Joseph’s choice to test rather than punish his brothers illustrates the path toward reconciliation and healing.
- Recognize God’s Plan: Joseph’s transformation—from wearing an iron collar of slavery to a golden collar of authority—symbolizes how God uses our suffering to refine and elevate us.
- Hope Amid Hardship: The story reminds us that salvation often comes through unexpected means. Our struggles may ultimately be the path to deliverance and growth.
Joseph’s journey teaches us to trust in God’s plan, even when the road is fraught with challenges. His life exemplifies the redemptive power of faith, patience, and forgiveness.
January 17
Genesis 45:16 – 47:27
Trusting in God’s Supply
Today’s reading reveals a deeply moving story of reconciliation, divine provision, and God’s overarching plan as seen in Joseph’s life and his family’s journey to Egypt.
Facing the Past: Joseph’s Forgiveness and Understanding
Joseph’s brothers, who betrayed him years earlier, now stood before him in need. Instead of harboring resentment, Joseph embraced them with forgiveness. He recognized that what they had intended for harm, God had used for good – saving not only their family but countless others from famine. This act of forgiveness, 22 years in the making, reminds us of the healing power of time and God’s transformative work in our lives.
Joseph’s Invitation to Egypt: A Glimpse of God’s Plan
Joseph invited his entire family to Egypt, offering them a safe haven during the famine. Pharaoh’s generosity – providing wagons, resources, and the best land – demonstrated how God used unexpected means to supply for His people.
As Jacob prepared to leave for Egypt, he paused at Beersheba to seek God’s guidance. There, God assured him of His plan, promising to make Jacob’s family into a great nation in Egypt.
The Emotional Reunion and Settlement in Goshen
The reunion of Jacob and Joseph in Goshen is one of the Bible’s most tender moments. Jacob’s words, “Now I am ready to die, since I have seen your face again and know you are still alive” (Genesis 46:30), capture the depth of his relief and joy. The family settled in Goshen, the best of Egypt’s land, symbolizing God’s abundant provision.
Word of the Day: Supply
Definition: To provide for a need or want; the act of making available what is necessary.
The word “supply” perfectly encapsulates this portion of Scripture. God’s provision for Jacob’s family was evident at every step – from Pharaoh’s generosity to Joseph’s leadership during the famine. This story reminds us of God’s promise to supply all our needs, as declared in Philippians 4:19: “And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
Trusting in God’s Supply
- Forgiveness Opens the Door to Healing: Joseph’s ability to forgive his brothers allowed for reconciliation and the restoration of family relationships. Let’s seek to forgive as God forgives us.
- Seek God’s Guidance: Like Jacob stopping at Beersheba, we should pause to seek God’s direction in major decisions. His assurances will guide us.
- Trust God’s Provision: Whether through people, circumstances, or His direct intervention, God supplies for His children in ways we may not expect.
- See the Bigger Picture: Joseph’s trials prepared him for God’s greater purpose. Trust that God is at work, even in difficult seasons.
Joseph’s story invites us to trust in God’s provision, to see His hand in our lives, and to embrace the ways He uses us to fulfill His plans.
January 18
Genesis 47:28 – 50:26
Jacob’s Blessing and God’s Grand Design
As we conclude the book of Genesis, we reflect on Jacob’s final moments and the blessings he bestows upon his children and grandchildren. These passages not only mark the end of a pivotal chapter in the Bible but also set the stage for the fulfillment of God’s promises through the twelve tribes of Israel.
Jacob’s Final Blessings: A Legacy of Faith and Prophecy
Jacob’s blessings are profound, shaping the destinies of his sons and pointing to the future of Israel. Among these blessings, the one over Judah stands out. It foretells the coming of Christ, the promised Savior who would bring redemption to all nations.
The Mixed Nature of Jacob’s Blessings
Not all of Jacob’s blessings were positive. For Reuben, Simeon, and Levi, the blessings reflected consequences of their past actions. Yet even these admonitions remind us of God’s sovereignty, using both the good and the flawed to fulfill His purposes.
Blessing as a Divine Instrument
In Genesis, blessings are more than expressions of favor; they are instruments of God’s divine plan. Jacob’s words over his children reflect both prophecy and purpose, highlighting the ways God weaves His will through human lives.
The Power of Our Words
Jacob’s blessings remind us of the immense power of words. As Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Like Jacob, we are called to speak life and blessings over those around us, understanding the weight and impact our words carry.
Word of the Day: Blessing
Definition: A blessing is God’s favor and protection, a divine gift that carries the power to guide, uplift, and fulfill His purposes.
Jacob’s blessings were not just about earthly prosperity—they were part of God’s eternal plan. Similarly, our words, spoken with intention and faith, can become blessings that reflect God’s love and purpose in others’ lives.
Living a Life of Blessing
- Speak Life Over Others: Use your words to uplift, guide, and encourage those around you. Like Jacob, your words can shape futures and reflect God’s goodness.
- Seek God’s Purpose: Reflect on how your life aligns with God’s greater plan. Trust that He is weaving your story into His grand design.
- Embrace the Legacy of Faith: Recognize the power of blessings in your family and community. Pass on faith, hope, and love to the next generation.
- Trust God’s Sovereignty: Just as God worked through Jacob’s family, trust that He can use both strengths and weaknesses to fulfill His purposes.
As we move forward from Genesis, we carry the lessons of faith, the power of words, and the assurance of God’s unfailing plan. Let us strive to be conduits of His blessings in the lives of others.
January 19
Job 1:1 – 4:21
The Testing of Job
The book of Job introduces us to one of the most profound narratives in Scripture, offering timeless lessons about testing, faith, and human resilience amidst suffering. As we delve into these first four chapters, we encounter the story of Job—a man of great wealth and unwavering piety—and his journey through unimaginable trials.
Job: A Man of Wealth and Piety
Job’s story begins with a portrait of his blameless character and abundant blessings. Living in Uz, Job is described as a man who fears God and shuns evil. His life is marked by prosperity, a large family, and unwavering devotion to God.
The Heavenly Challenge and Job’s Testing
The narrative takes a dramatic turn as a celestial dialogue unfolds between God and Satan. God points out Job’s righteousness, but Satan challenges this, claiming Job’s faith is contingent on his prosperity. God permits Satan to test Job, leading to devastating losses: his livestock, servants, and most heartbreakingly, his children. Despite his grief, Job’s response is one of mourning yet steadfast faith: “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).
Job’s Physical Afflictions and His Wife’s Response
The testing continues as Satan inflicts Job with painful boils. Even when his wife suggests he “curse God and die,” Job refuses, responding with resilience: “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” (Job 2:10). His words remind us of the complexity of faith, especially when grappling with suffering.
The Arrival of Job’s Friends and His Lament
Job’s three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—arrive and sit with him in silence for seven days and nights. This act of solidarity underscores the depth of Job’s suffering and the importance of simply being present during times of grief. However, as the dialogues begin, their well-meaning but inadequate responses highlight the difficulty of addressing deep pain with simplistic reasoning.
Eliphaz’s Counsel and Job’s Response
Eliphaz speaks first, advising Job to take hope in his past faithfulness and righteousness. While his counsel contains some truth, it falls short in addressing the enormity of Job’s suffering. Job’s response is raw and honest, a lament that questions the meaning of life amidst profound pain.
Word of the Day: Testing
Definition: The process of examining and scrutinizing, often leading to growth and refinement.
The trials in Job’s life epitomize the theme of testing. As Proverbs 17:3 reminds us, “Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the Lord tests the heart.” Job’s story is a powerful example of how tests can refine and transform us, even through the most challenging circumstances.
Finding Strength in Testing
- Embrace the Refining Process: Like silver and gold tested by fire, our trials can strengthen our faith and character when we trust God through them.
- Find God in the Silence: Job’s friends initially sat with him in silence. Sometimes, being present and still is the best response to suffering.
- Hold Fast to Faith: Job’s steadfastness amidst unimaginable loss reminds us to cling to God, even when life doesn’t make sense.
- Accept the Complexity of Faith: Testing often brings questions and doubts, but it can also deepen our understanding of God’s character and His faithfulness.
The story of Job challenges us to view our trials not as punishments but as opportunities for growth, testing our resilience and dependence on God. Like Job, may we find strength in God’s presence, even when life’s answers seem out of reach.
