Walking with God

Monday, 26 February 2007 04:00

Genesis 39:1-23

Introduction

God is with everyone who has accepted Christ as his only personal savior. ¨ The Holy Spirit lives in him (1st Cor.12.13 - all given to drink of one spirit, Rom. 8:9 if any man have not the spirit of Christ, not his) and Jesus said that we never is leaving (Hebrews 13:5, he said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you"). ¨ Because God is with us, we must live up to certain level of quality (2 Cor. 5:17-If anyone is in Christ, new creation; 1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be holy in all you of living) ¨ In this story, God was with Joseph and he had a standard of conduct that we should imitate.

I. SERENA (Vs.1-6)

Joseph had also been abused and sold into slavery by his brothers. (Genesis 37) He could have shown a bad attitude (bitterness, revenge, protest) as a result of this abuse, but instead, Joseph gave the best of himself and God prospered (twice mentions his prosperity) ¨ prosperity is accompanied by the service (v.4) ¨ Give the best of ourselves, to act conscientiously, is a requirement for all Christians, even when we have to do things we do not like (Col. 3:17-23 - whatever you do, do all to the glory of God, subjection, obedience and heart to the Lord)

II. STRONGLY (Vs.7-19)

Joseph was doing things right, but the temptation is crossed her path through the advances of his boss's wife. Joseph could have yielded to the temptation, but acted strongly enough to say no and run at the time that he should have. However, their goal was to please God (v.9). "José was aware of the disastrous consequences (8.9) ¨ The devil also knows of our desire to serve and live to please the Lord. THEREFORE presents obstacles, attacking us in our weaknesses. ¨ I wish we act with the same determination to always do what is right and flee from evil (1 Cor 10:13-not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear ... will exit, 1 Peter 5:8 -- be sober and vigilant)

III. Consistency (Vs.20-23)

Sometimes, the act firmly, leads us to face their ultimate consequences. God did not keep Joseph from prison because God had a plan that included prison. (Gen. 40-41) But even there God showed his mercy. ¨ Joseph found favor in charge of the prison. However, recall that Joseph was consistent. It ceased to be faithful to God and do right. ¨ Even when we face a setback in our lives, we must be faithful. (1 Cor. 4:2 - requires each administrator to be found faithful)

Conclusion:

Joseph was a man of integrity: he did not despair or give in to temptation, nor left to be faithful to God, you who must do about beloved brother in Christ.

Comparte este enlace