What role does faith play in enduring hardships, as seen in Psalm 105:17? Verse Focus “He sent a man before them—Joseph, sold as a slave.” (Psalm 105:17) Joseph’s Faith-Filled Hardship in a Snapshot • Betrayed by brothers, sold into slavery (Genesis 37) • Falsely accused, imprisoned (Genesis 39–40) • Yet “the LORD was with Joseph” in every setting (Genesis 39:2, 21) • Psalm 105 interprets it all as God “sending,” not fate or misfortune Faith Sees God’s Hand in Pain • Looks past circumstances to sovereign purpose (Romans 8:28) • Re-labels evil intent as divine intent (Genesis 50:20) • Anchors identity in God’s presence, not changing conditions (Hebrews 11:27) Faith Sustains Obedience While Waiting • Works diligently in low stations (Genesis 39:4, 22-23) • Chooses righteousness over immediate relief (Genesis 39:9) • Uses gifts even when forgotten (Genesis 40:8) Faith keeps serving because God’s promise is certain. Faith Refined by Testing “His feet were bound with shackles… until His word came to pass; the word of the LORD tested him.” (Psalm 105:18-19) • Purifies motives (1 Peter 1:6-7) • Produces endurance (James 1:2-4) • Prepares for greater usefulness (Genesis 45:5-7) Faith Ultimately Vindicated • Prison to palace (Genesis 41:41-44) • Promise fulfilled exactly on time (Psalm 105:20-22) • Joseph listed among the approved “by faith” (Hebrews 11:22) Takeaways for Today • View trials as divine appointments: “He sent…” • Trust the unseen plan; present pain may serve future provision. • Remain faithful in small tasks; hardship is training ground. • Expect refining; the same Word that promises also tests. • Anticipate vindication; God never wastes the faith of His servants. |
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