Joseph (3)
Notes
Transcript
v.2-3 Here in these verses we see a theme taking root that will carry us throughout the entire chapter.
The theme is twofold:
1. The LORD was with Joseph! In the midst of all of his trials and trouble the LORD was with him in them all.
The name that is used for God is significant. It is the proper Hebrew name Yahweh which literally means “the self existent one” which also signifies His complete and absolute control over all the events of life.
It is significant because this is the God who is with Joseph in the midst of his suffering.
The all powerful Creator is not far off and distant, He is not unconcerned with our circumstances, but is literally “with us” in the midst of them.
This can bring us great comfort in the midst of our suffering.
2. The LORD made him successful! Joseph was a slave in a foreign country, and yet in God’s eyes, he was a success!
Most of us would not consider Joseph’s life a success up until this point. But we have to remember that God’s definition of success and our definition of success are often polar opposites.
God defines our success not by our achievements but by our faithfulness and character!
Through verses 2-4 we see the progression that is made from servant in Potiphar’s household to being in charge of all of Potiphar’s household. This shows us that there are very real benefits to our faithfulness to God.
10 “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.
v.9 We see Joseph tested once again, and once again his character is proven. He shows himself to be a man of integrity. The key in that is recognizing sin for what it really is.
What made this sin an “immense evil”? Because it was a sin not against his master or his masters wife but a sin against a holy and righteous God! As all sin is!
v.20 We see Joseph’s life take another turn for the worst.
We have to remember that we do not control the outcome of any given situation. Though we may be faithful, God does not promise us that each situation will turn out the way that we want. Although God is always working for our ultimate good.
Joseph was faithful in this situation, yet the reward of his faithfulness was prison. He finds himself in a worse position than before. This brings about an important point.
Our faithfulness to God is never meant to earn us His blessing but is simply because He is worthy of our faithfulness.
We are faithful because of who He is not what He gives!
v.23 Even in prison Joseph was successful and God ultimately turned it around for good. Things may look dark for a season but God will bring all things to pass in His time.