When we Keep our Focus on the Power and Promise of God’s Word
The biblical account of Joseph’s life has always been a personal favorite, so I was really pleased that it was the topic for Dr. Stanley’s TV broadcast message yesterday. As men and women standing for marriage restoration, we can learn so much from Joseph’s experience and how he relied on his faith and confidence in the power and promises of God NO MATTER WHAT!
But it’s important to note that no matter what kind of circumstances Joseph found himself in, which included many difficult and totally unfair circumstances brought on by outrageous injustice; he ALWAYS did everything to the very best of his ability and potential. And he kept a positive attitude and outlook despite often being in the midst of extremely challenging situations. So he excelled in all that he did, and in addition to earning the blessings and favor of God, he obviously enjoyed the blessings and favor of men! What a powerful example of what it means to walk out Romans 14:17-19, which says For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. That’s the way Joseph lived his life and he was very greatly rewarded with the promise God had given him so many years earlier in his dream. However, if not for EVERY wrong and injustice done to him, he never would have or even could have achieved God’s plan for his life, which he acknowledged in Genesis 50:20, when he said You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. And when we truly get that and understand the awesome assurance we all have in Romans 8:28, we too will be able to walk in the righteousness, peace and joy of the Holy Spirit as we stand for marriage restoration. And when we keep our focus on the power and promise of God’s Word instead of our circumstances, just like Joseph, we will indeed be blessed and encouraged beyond anything we could ever ask or imagine!
So take the time to listen to Through Times of Trial by Dr. Stanley, and read his Sermon Outline with links to the scripture references, and be blessed and encouraged!