January 20

In Genesis 35-37, we see Jacob’s return to Bethel, where God reaffirms His covenant with him. Jacob, now called Israel, leads his family to leave behind their idols and worship the Lord alone, a reminder that God continually calls us to renewed devotion and purity. Later, we read the beginning of Joseph’s story—his dreams, his brothers’ jealousy, and their betrayal. Joseph’s journey from favored son to sold servant marks the beginning of a series of trials. Yet, God’s hand remains upon him, and even amid betrayal, Joseph is part of a larger plan that will ultimately reveal God’s faithfulness.

Psalm 12 echoes a cry for help in a world where faithfulness seems scarce. David laments the deceit and pride he sees around him, praying for God to protect the faithful. “Because the poor are plundered and the needy groan, I will now arise,” says the Lord (Psalm 12:5). This psalm reminds us that God hears the cries of the oppressed and is faithful to protect His people. When surrounded by unfaithfulness or difficulty, we can rest assured that God is our protector, trustworthy in all circumstances.

In Mark 14, we witness Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, praying in agony as He faces betrayal, abandonment, and the cross. Despite His anguish, Jesus submits to the Father’s will, saying, “Yet not what I will, but what you will” (Mark 14:36). Jesus’ faithfulness to the Father’s plan, even unto death, models ultimate obedience and surrender. He endures the pain of betrayal, wrongful accusations, and physical suffering, all for the sake of redeeming humanity. Mark 14 reveals a Savior who is faithful through the most profound suffering and who ultimately trusts His Father’s purpose.

These passages highlight the importance of remaining faithful to God, even in difficult times. Jacob, in obedience, leads his family back to God, and Joseph endures betrayal with patience. Jesus, above all, embodies faithfulness through His willing sacrifice. When we face testing, we can remember that God is faithful to us, present even in our struggles. Like Jacob, we’re invited to let go of distractions and return to wholehearted worship. Like Joseph, we may find ourselves in seasons where God’s plan isn’t clear, but we can trust that He is working for our good. And like Jesus, we’re called to surrender to God’s will, knowing that He is with us, even in our darkest hours.

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