Message for September 2, 2012 from Pastor Jerry

 “…and he was there in the prison.”  Genesis 39:20

    You may not readily recognize who this scripture is referring to.   But, before he was in prison, he was a slave.  Before that he was in a pit, put there by his own family. Of course you now recognize this is the story of Joseph.

     He made a trip from his father’s favorite son to a common prisoner in Egypt’s prison.  What did he do to deserve such a fate?   Joseph was a man of extraordinary character as reflected in his encounter with Potiphar’s wife.  He chose God over her in spite of his circumstances.

    Joseph never knew what his future held, but he did know he could trust his God.  Now that the story is complete we know that Joseph became second only to Pharoah in power in the land of Egypt.

    Do not forget his “pit stops” along the way.  They tested his character to the extreme.  He was being prepared for the “palace” even in the pit and prison.  He made it to the palace because he remained faithful in the pit and in the prison.

    Joseph was mistreated and hated by his own brothers.  He was lied about by a woman that got him put in prison.  He was forgotten by a “friend” that was supposed to have helped him.  Things went from bad to worse but Joseph never stopped serving God.

    Are you in a pit? In prison?  About to give up?  Reconsider your position.   You are a child of God.  You are destined for the palace.  Don’t give up before you get there.  Remember, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”  Phil. 4:13

    Hold on to the promises of God and expect to see the salvation of the Lord.  The temporary “pit stops” are used to test our character.  It is not God who needs to be convinced of your determination and ability to success.  He already knows you are well able to win.  The enemy is the one who must be convinced of your faithfulness.

    Do not be distracted by where you are;  keep looking at where you are supposed to be.  Even if you are in the pit, remember, you are seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.  See yourself where the Word says you are and do what the Word says you can do.

    God prepared Joseph to save his entire family, but there was a cost.  Thank God that Jesus paid our cost for victory.  We must not forget that we always triumph in Christ Jesus.  Don’t be moved by the devil’s shadows and mirrors.  The palace is your goal.  Stick with it.

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