"It is because God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering" (Genesis 41:52).

Joseph named his second son, Ephraim. He was given to him after he was delivered from his suffering of 13 years. Joseph tells us that he named him this because God has made him fruitful in the land of his suffering. Ephraim means "twice fruitful."

Joseph was fruitful in two instances. He was fruitful during his time of adversity and his prosperity. When God brings us into a time of suffering, it can be a fruitful time. It's rare for us to see the fruit during the suffering period. But know that the roots are going deep into the spiritual soil of our soul because of our pressing in to God during our time of suffering. This is producing a work in our character that cannot be seen until it finishes the process. Such was the case for Joseph.

It was not until several years after such a time that I began to see the fruit of the suffering that the Lord allowed me to experience. How grateful I am to understand some of the "why" that has led to a new life in Him that I would have never had without this period.

Samson had great anointing but lacked character. We see many today that have great anointing but also lack character. Today, God is raising up Josephs who not only have great anointing for these days but also great character. Suffering produces character.

If you find yourself in a time of suffering, now is the time to press into God. Let your roots grow deeper. Whenever there is a famine, tree roots are forced to drive deeper into the soil to find water. These times are designed to create such a deep-rooted faith that our natures will forever be changed.