"BUT GOD WAS WITH HIM"

     Joseph's life epitomizes the redemptive work of God in the face of mistreatment and adversity. He was sold into Egypt and was the victim of injustice, but God was with him. Therefore, all the evil intended by his brothers, the slave traders, and Potiphar's wife was countered by the grace, purpose, and presence of God. His oppressors meant it for evil, but God turned it to good. The primary determining factor in Joseph's life was not the mistreatment he received from people, but the hidden purpose of God which undergirded him and overshadowed everything else until it was revealed in due time. Joseph maintained integrity in his walk with God. His faith, obedience, and perseverance inexorably moved him to the purpose of God. How we relate to God determines how we relate to everything else. Often our adversities and problems simply uncover the real condition of our hearts toward God. Those who have hearts after God will find their place in God's purpose. Those who do not have hearts after God will be derailed because they become embroiled in struggles with their "enemies” and those they blame.

      We serve the God of Joseph. Let us trust Him and stand in faith. He is the God of  great redemption. "Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us manifests the fragrance of His knowledge in every place" (2 Cor.2:14).  

"And the patriarchs, becoming envious, sold Joseph into Egypt. But God was with him and delivered him..."  Acts 7:9-10.

"But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him mercy, and He gave him favor..."  Genesis 39:21.

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