“And he [Joash] was hidden with them in the house of God for six years, while Athaliah reigned over the land.” 2 Chron. 22:12
Second Chronicles 21-23 tells the entire story of Joash. However, 2 Chron. 22:12 reminds me of pastors’ wives who feel hidden, overlooked, and under-utilized in the house of God.
Hope While Hidden
Beloved, we serve an all-seeing God. He beholds you as the apple of His eye (Ps. 17:8). He sees you and knows both the cry and desire of your heart, even though you may feel hidden. Verse two of the old hymn, None Is Like God, says: In all the earth there is no spot, excluded from His care. We cannot go where God is not, for He is everywhere.
The Lord keeps watch while Joash is in hiding and the Lord keeps watch over you. God protects, preserves, prepares, and presents His people at the perfect time. Joash learns of his royal lineage while hidden. So can you. Immerse yourself in God’s Word. Therein lies your truest identity. Use your gifts. Many ministry wives mistakenly think that a platform or a pulpit is the ultimate validation of their giftedness. Not so. God works mightily through willing and obedient vessels.
Proclaim the good news without a podium. Write heartfelt letters, send cards, use social media for the glory of God. Pray for others, and when possible, pick up the phone and pray with them. Encourage the discouraged. Opportunities abound to meet the needs of others and to do good works (Eph. 2:10, 1 Tim. 6:18).
Serving From the Shadows
Joash became king when he was seven years old. In Scripture, the number seven often means perfection or completion. However, perfection is a process. God promotes and presents those who prepare. Joseph serves faithfully while a slave in Potiphar’s house. He serves faithfully while in prison. Joseph makes the most of his circumstances, for the Lord his God is with him. At the perfect time Joseph is promoted and made prime minister over all of Egypt (Gen. 37, 39-41).
Make the most of your circumstances. Be encouraged. God sees you. God is with you. His plan and purpose for your life prevails!