What steps can we take to trust God's timing, as seen in Joseph's life? Setting the scene: Joseph’s second dream “Then Joseph had another dream and told his brothers, ‘Look, I had another dream, and this time the sun and moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.’” (Genesis 37:9) Joseph receives a breathtaking promise long before it becomes reality. Between the dream and the fulfillment lie betrayal, slavery, false accusation, and years in prison. His story offers practical steps for learning to trust God’s timing. Why God’s timetable is worth trusting • The Lord sees the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). • His purposes are always good (Romans 8:28). • Waiting seasons refine faith (James 1:2-4). Practical steps drawn from Joseph’s journey • Hold the promise close – Cling to what God has shown, even when circumstances contradict it. – Psalm 105:17-19: “Until his prediction came true; the word of the LORD tested him.” – Revisit Scripture, write it down, speak it aloud. • Embrace God’s preparation in hidden seasons – Slavery and prison shaped Joseph’s character. – 1 Peter 5:6: “Humble yourselves… that He may exalt you in due time.” – Let setbacks form spiritual muscle instead of resentment. • Serve faithfully where you are – Genesis 39:2: “The LORD was with Joseph… serving in the household of his Egyptian master.” – Excellence in low-visibility assignments positions us for future influence. – Galatians 6:9 encourages perseverance: “in due time we will reap.” • Guard your integrity – Joseph refused Potiphar’s wife, choosing loyalty to God over immediate relief (Genesis 39:7-12). – Trusting God’s timing often requires saying no to shortcuts. • Keep your heart free from bitterness – When remembered, Joseph later tells his brothers, “God intended [it] for good” (Genesis 50:20). – Forgiveness protects us from wasting the waiting season in anger. • Acknowledge God at every turn – Genesis 41:16: “I myself cannot do it… but God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.” – Publicly assigning credit to the Lord keeps perspective clear and invites His continued favor. • See the larger, redemptive picture – Joseph’s delay preserved nations during famine. – Our waiting often serves purposes beyond ourselves. Living these steps today • Review the promise God has given you; align daily choices with it. • Invite Him to shape character in the unseen places. • Look for ways to bless others right where you stand. • Choose integrity over expedience. • Release grudges quickly. • Speak of God’s faithfulness often. • Believe that the season you’re in is part of a story that ends in His glory and your good. Psalm 27:14 sums it up: “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!” |
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