Walking With The Greats - The Life of Joseph

This week's service can be watched at
http://www.kbmlive.tv/

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These things happened to them as examples for us. 1 Corinthians 10:11

JOSEPH'S CHALLENGES:

• Hated by his 1/2 brothers - Genesis 37:4
• Sold as a slave - Genesis 37:27-36
• Falsely accused by his boss’ wife - Genesis 39:17,18
• Sent to jail - Genesis 39:20
• Forgotten by his inmate - Genesis 40:23

Your problem can prepare you for your promise!

Life Lesson #1 - Your response will determine the result.

KEY ONE: Joseph’s response was INTEGRITY, or how you act when no one else is watching!  The right response will produce the right results!

Life Lesson #2 - Integrity when no one is watching attracts God’s attention.

When Joseph was under pressure, he made the right choices because he had already determined to make the right choices when everything was ok.  He had the fear of God as a slave (Genesis 39:9) and faith in God as a prisoner (Genesis 30:20-21).  Joseph knew that just because everything's going wrong, it doesn't mean he was doing the wrong thing.  When things go wrong, don't turn on God, turn to God.

KEY TWO: Joseph’s response was HUMILITY, or how you act when everyone else is watching.  Humility means 'modest, not arrogant, taking the nature of a servant' Matthew 20:26.  Joseph never allowed pride to control his decisions, even though he was a blessed man.  What doesn't break you will make you!  God will never give you more than you can handle 1 Corinthians 10:13.

Life Lesson #3 - Humility in our attitude and action is preparation for promotion.

Joseph had faith in God’s promises (Genesis 41:33-36).  He didn't self-promote!  When we humble ourselves, God will raise us up - 1 Peter 5:6.  Joseph was forgiving - Genesis 45:5-7, Genesis 50:20.  He didn't use his power to 'blast' them, but rather to declare 'blessing' on their lives.

Life Lesson #4 - The Favour of God can be on your life even when things look a mess.

Be patient in the process.  Life's not always fair but God is always good!

• Don't focus on what's happening around you.  Keep your focus on God and His promises.  In due time, they will come to fruition! Galatians 6:9
• The steps of the righteous are ordered by the Lord! Psalm 37:23
• Promotion comes from the Lord. Psalm 75:5-7
• God has great plans for your life! Jeremiah 29:11

You are in the process to your promise today!  It may not be easy, but it will be worth it!

CHALLENGE: Look at some of the challenges life has put in your path and reflect on how you have responded in light of today's message.  Did you walk in intergrity and humility like Joseph?  Or did you spurn the very promises God gave you, because you couldn't see God in the process?  Go to God today and ask Him to help you stay faithful and not get sidetracked from His promises.  There are many who need you to see the fulfillment of God's promises in your life because your choices will affect their lives too!

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