Untitled Sermon (5)

Joseph is a type of the coming Messiah

But Joseph is also a type of us, in our relationship with God.

Joseph was given authority that came only as it was given by another. but once it was given, it was given fully.

In the life of Joseph we see so clearly how God moves us toward His purposes and plans, if we remain faithful and keep our hearts set of God’s dreams for our lives.

Pharoah raises up Joseph, he does not raise up himself. This is an important distinction. Humility is not about lessening yourself, it’s about agreeing with what God says about you, no matter what.

It would be easy for us to begin to think that God is not really at work in our lives when we are in seasons like Joseph, imprisoned, dreams seemingly on hold.

Suddenly the opportunity arises, and Joseph remains humble and honest about what’s going on. Pharoah believes Joseph can interpret the dream, and Joseph immediately acknowledges that it’s God at work in him that makes it all work.

Oh we need a heart like that.

Yes, Absolutely, God will partner with me and the miracle that is needed WILL be accomplished.

We need that kind of boldness in our lives.

Joseph had every opportunity to escape what was going on in his life.

Joseph had every opportunity to stay comfortable with the favor he was receiving from the world.

How many times have we made choices in our hearts based on what the world, or life in general was throwing at us?

How many times have you tried to rescue yourself, or helped yourself to that little extra creature comfort?

I see as an example in Joseph’s life that you have an invitation to remain humble, to remain faithful, and God will remember you, and HE will lift you up.

Joseph had courage to offer counsel to Pharoah, even calling it “a favorable answer”. Imagine being in front of President Trump, or the CEO of your company, or the president of your bank, or some other powerful person in your life. What would you say to them? How would you bring God’s truth to them, and how bold would you be if you heard God say something that might come across as bad news?

Joseph had courage to offer counsel to Pharoah, even calling it “a favorable answer”. Imagine being in front of President Trump, or the CEO of your company, or the president of your bank, or some other powerful person in your life. What would you say to them? How would you bring God’s truth to them, and how bold would you be if you heard God say something that might come across as bad news?

I used to be so intimidated by my bosses that I would shape my life around their expectations. I would miss opportunities to go on incredible missions for the Lord, because “I don’t think my boss will let me go.” And I wouldn’t even ask!

So I want to challenge you. Ho

I have been healed of that particular affliction. I have come to see now that when God has set my direction I can boldly assert my own direction, even at work. And I can address the complications that sometimes arise out of that, and God has often given me the right way to come at things so I can be helpful at work, make a difference in the lives of the people I am serving, AND take part in things that the Lord invites me to do.

Jesus is reaching out to you just like Pharoah reached out to Joseph. Here’s a signet ring of authority. You will rule and reign with Jesus, in HIS kingdom, not in your own kingdom. Joseph acknowledged a number of truths. “I cannot interpret your dreams, but God is with me.”

God put Joseph in the place to save both Israel, AND Egypt. God will move in your life in a way that preserves your family, AND makes an impact on the world.

But it will require something from you. It will require faith. It will require that you are willing to place HIS kingdom ahead of all else in your heart.

Here’s the good news. God has sent us the Holy Spirit, who will lead us into that place. As we place our hand in His hand, he leads us into all truth, which invariably leads us into Godliness.

Let’s pray.