Divine Lessons: How God Turns Struggles into Triumph

Hi! Welcome to Perfect Body, A Torah Portion Afterthought.  I’m Shirah Chanté, your host and Relationship Artist, here to share some insights to help you build lasting bonds with others and deepen your relationship with the Divine. 

I’m so glad you’re here! And if you’re a returning reader, make sure to subscribe so we can continue this journey together. Today, I’ve got something exciting for you to explore: the study of the Torah, something that’s incredibly close to my heart.

My Journey: From Struggle to Revelation

Let me take you back a bit. I first opened the Bible for myself in my early 20’s during a particularly challenging time. I was without a home, and by God’s grace, I found refuge in an office building in Beverly Hills, a miracle that drove me to seek God more deeply through scripture.

This desire continued into divinity school in Rochester, New York, where I immersed myself further in biblical studies. And today, I’d love to share our focus on a Torah portion from Genesis called “Vayechi,” meaning “and he lived.”

A Lesson in Blessings

This portion of Genesis tells us about Jacob blessing his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and challenges our expectations. Jacob crosses his hands in blessing, giving the younger Ephraim the superior blessing. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes life’s unexpected turns are part of a divine plan.

Just like Jacob blessed his children, we can look at how God, our Father, guides and blesses us. It’s a powerful connection that shows how your life is woven into a grand purpose, one that God orchestrates with love.

Seeing Purpose in Our Struggles

As Genesis wraps up, there’s a powerful message from Joseph to his brothers: “You thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good,” (Genesis 50:20). Joseph’s perspective on his past hardships is inspirational. He saw that what was intended to harm him was used by God for a greater purpose.

This ties beautifully into a truth Apostle Paul shared in Romans 8:28: “All things work together for good to them that love God.” It reassures us that every hardship and challenge is working for our benefit. Isn’t that an amazing thought?

Embrace God’s Plan for You

So, how do you apply this in your life? Trust that whatever you’re going through, God is using it to lead you to where you need to be. Every struggle is part of crafting a story where you emerge stronger and closer to your destiny.

Imagine experiencing peace, knowing that everything is unfolding as it should, even the challenges. That certainty removes the burden of bitterness and opens your heart to the love and direction God intends for you.

A Prayer Just for You

I’d like to end with a prayer for you: “Father God, in Jesus’ name, I ask You to bless this person reading this message. Help them to see every moment as a movement toward their destiny, crafted by Your divine hand. Amen.”

As we look forward to diving into the book of Exodus next, remember that you’re on a journey—one filled with divine insights and love. I’m so grateful to have you here with me. Until next time, keep loving God, yourself, and others. Take care!
God bless, Shirah Chante, Relationship Artist