The Hidden Blessing

Recently, I found myself in a rough situation. Caring for my aged parents had become more difficult. A friend, who had already been through this hardship, offered advice. Look for hidden blessings.

When we are called upon to sacrifice, man may be tempted to be upset. We are not doing what we want. Much effort is being required while opportunities pass. One is tempted to ask, “why me Lord?”

What my friend shared is something the Bible teaches. The Apostle Paul speaks of his “thorn in the flesh” in 2 Corinthians 12: 7 – 10. Paul does not say what this thorn is, but he revealed it was given to him to control his pride. The Lord had allowed Paul to receive an abundance of revelations. This could easily allow him to think too highly of himself. Three times Paul pleaded with God to remove this “thorn”, but the Lord refused. What Paul did not realize was this thorn was his hidden blessing. It allowed him to stay humble and put his trust in God. Once Paul understood the reason behind the thorn, he knew it was a hidden blessing.

Joseph also had a hidden blessing which came in the form of a dream. A dream he may have regretted telling his jealous brothers. You can read about this dream and his brother’s reaction in Genesis 37. His brother’s sold Joseph for 20 pieces of silver. He was taken to Egypt and sold again. Imagine his hurt at what he was being forced to do. It would be very difficult to maintain a positive outlook.

In Egypt, he faced more difficulties being unjustly placed in prison. Eventually, the Lord caused Joseph to gain the favor of Pharoah. Joseph was promoted to be Pharoah’s most trusted servant. He was placed over all of Egypt. Joesph was now in a position to help Egypt save grain to withstand an upcoming famine. When the famine arrived, his brothers came to Egypt to buy grain. Joesph revealed himself to his brothers and brought his family to Egypt. Notice what Joseph learned about his hidden blessing in what he tells his brothers. It is recorded for us in Genesis 45: 7- 8. “And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. And now you did not send me here, but God. And He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler over all the land of Egypt.”

I too have found hidden blessings in caring for my parents. I have been forced to spend more time with them. This has reminded me of my love and care. It is no longer a sacrifice but a blessing which I look forward to every day.

My favorite blessing is tucking my mother in bed each night. I give her a kiss on the cheek and wish her sweet dreams. She always smiles up at me. She has the most beautiful smile. I have been rewarded the opportunity to return the love my parents first shared with me. What seemed a burden has revealed itself a blessing. Be watching for those hidden blessings.

JRD