Discovering Your Divine Calling Through Joseph's Journey
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the story of Joseph from Genesis 37, focusing on his dreams and the tumultuous journey that followed. Joseph's dreams, which were from God, foretold his future leadership and the pivotal role he would play in saving his family and Egypt. Despite the hatred and betrayal from his brothers, Joseph remained steadfast in his faith and obedience to God, which ultimately led him to fulfill his divine calling.
We explored the concept of calling, distinguishing it from mere occupation. While your job might be how you earn a living, your calling is a higher purpose given by God. Every Christian has a general calling to know God and live for Him, but there is also a personal calling unique to each individual. This personal calling may not always align with our plans or make immediate sense, but it will never contradict Scripture and will always draw us closer to God.
We discussed how to discern God's calling, emphasizing that it may come with challenges and require us to step out of our comfort zones. However, God equips us with everything we need, including His peace, to carry out His will. Confirmation often comes through various means, including other people and circumstances, and it's crucial to seek God with a pure heart and pure motives.
Joseph's story teaches us the importance of staying committed to our general calling of knowing and obeying God, as this keeps us on course for our personal calling. Even when faced with trials and temptations, Joseph's unwavering faith ensured he fulfilled his God-given purpose. Similarly, we must protect our calling from distractions and temptations that could derail us.
In conclusion, whether you're an accountant, a doctor, a student, or retired, God has a specific calling for you. It's essential to seek Him diligently, understand your purpose, and walk in it with faith and obedience. By doing so, we contribute to building God's kingdom and fulfilling the Great Commission.
### Key Takeaways
1. Distinguishing Calling from Occupation: Your job is how you earn a living, but your calling is a higher purpose given by God. While they may sometimes overlap, they are often distinct. Understanding this difference helps you focus on fulfilling your divine purpose beyond just your professional responsibilities. [42:38]
2. General and Personal Callings: Every Christian has a general calling to know God and live for Him. This involves worship, obedience, and a relationship with God. Additionally, each person has a unique personal calling that God has prepared in advance, which may involve specific tasks or roles in His kingdom. [44:11]
3. Discerning God's Calling: A calling from God may contradict our plans but will never contradict Scripture. It may be daunting, but God provides the necessary resources and peace to carry it out. Seeking confirmation through prayer and godly counsel is crucial in understanding and pursuing your calling. [47:35]
4. Staying Committed Amidst Trials: Joseph's story illustrates the importance of remaining faithful to God despite challenges. His unwavering commitment to his general calling of knowing and obeying God kept him on course for his personal calling. Similarly, we must protect our calling from distractions and temptations. [52:04]
5. Impacting God's Kingdom: Regardless of your occupation, God calls you to impact His kingdom. This could involve serving in your church, mentoring others, or supporting ministries. Your calling is significant, and fulfilling it brings glory to God and advances His mission. [01:00:55]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [32:37] - Introduction to Joseph's Story
3. [33:59] - Joseph's Dreams and Family Dynamics
4. [35:30] - Brothers' Hatred and Plot Against Joseph
5. [36:53] - Joseph Sold into Slavery
6. [38:16] - Joseph's Journey to Egypt
7. [41:16] - Significance of Joseph's Dreams
8. [42:38] - Understanding Your Calling
9. [44:11] - General and Personal Callings
10. [45:49] - Discerning God's Calling
11. [47:35] - Challenges in Following God's Call
12. [49:09] - Confirmation of God's Calling
13. [50:40] - Personal Testimony of Calling
14. [52:04] - Staying Committed Amidst Trials
15. [53:37] - Impacting God's Kingdom
16. [56:32] - Occupation vs. Calling
17. [01:00:55] - Examples of Living Out Your Calling
18. [01:02:28] - Retired but Still Called
19. [01:03:56] - Joseph's Faithfulness and Obedience
20. [01:09:52] - Protecting Your Calling
21. [01:13:46] - Modern-Day Challenges to Calling
22. [01:15:37] - Everyday Callings
23. [01:17:06] - Encouragement for All Ages
24. [01:18:47] - Prayer and Dedication
25. [01:20:48] - Closing Remarks and Encouragement
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 37:4-36
2. Ephesians 2:10
3. Ephesians 4:11-13
#### Observation Questions
1. What were Joseph's dreams, and how did his brothers react to them? (Genesis 37:5-11)
2. How did Joseph's brothers plan to get rid of him, and what ultimately happened to Joseph? (Genesis 37:18-28)
3. According to Ephesians 2:10, what are we created for, and who prepared these works for us?
4. How does Ephesians 4:11-13 describe the purpose of the spiritual gifts given to believers?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Joseph's brothers were so hostile towards him and his dreams? How did their actions reflect their feelings? (Genesis 37:4-11) [33:59]
2. How does Joseph's story illustrate the difference between a general calling and a personal calling? (Genesis 37:5-11) [42:38]
3. What does it mean that we are God's workmanship, created for good works? How does this relate to our personal calling? (Ephesians 2:10) [44:11]
4. How can the spiritual gifts mentioned in Ephesians 4:11-13 help us fulfill our personal calling? [45:49]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt a strong sense of calling from God. How did you discern it, and what steps did you take to follow it? [50:40]
2. Joseph faced many trials and temptations but remained committed to his calling. What are some distractions or temptations in your life that could derail you from your calling? How can you protect yourself from them? [52:04]
3. The sermon emphasized the importance of distinguishing between occupation and calling. How can you live out your calling in your current occupation, even if they are not the same? [56:32]
4. Think about the general calling to know God and live for Him. What specific actions can you take this week to deepen your relationship with God and live out your faith more fully? [44:11]
5. The pastor shared a personal testimony about discerning God's call to plant a church. Have you ever experienced a similar process of seeking confirmation for a significant decision? What did you learn from that experience? [50:40]
6. How can you use your spiritual gifts to serve your church and community? Identify one specific way you can start or continue using your gifts this month. [45:49]
7. Joseph's unwavering faith kept him on course for his personal calling. How can you cultivate a similar faith and commitment in your own life, especially during challenging times? [42:38]
By engaging with these questions, we hope to deepen our understanding of God's calling in our lives and encourage one another to walk faithfully in the purposes He has set before us.
Devotional
Day 1: Understanding Your Calling Beyond Occupation
Description:
Many people often confuse their job with their calling, but these are distinct concepts. Your job is what you do to earn a living, while your calling is a higher purpose given by God. This calling may or may not align with your professional responsibilities, but it is always rooted in a divine purpose that transcends mere occupation. Recognizing this difference helps you focus on fulfilling your divine purpose beyond just your professional duties. It allows you to see your work as a platform for living out your calling rather than the calling itself. Understanding this distinction is crucial for living a life that is aligned with God's will and purpose for you. [42:38]
Bible Passage:
"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:23-24, ESV)
Reflection:
Think about your current job or daily responsibilities. How can you use these as a platform to live out your higher calling from God today?
Day 2: Embracing General and Personal Callings
Description:
Every Christian has a general calling to know God and live for Him, which involves worship, obedience, and a relationship with God. This is a universal calling that applies to all believers. In addition to this, each person has a unique personal calling that God has prepared in advance. This personal calling may involve specific tasks or roles in His kingdom that are unique to you. It is important to seek God diligently to understand both your general and personal callings. While the general calling is clear and straightforward, the personal calling may require more discernment and prayer to fully understand and embrace. [44:11]
Bible Passage:
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on your general calling to know and live for God. What specific tasks or roles do you feel God is calling you to in your personal life?
Day 3: Discerning God's Calling
Description:
Discerning God's calling can be challenging, especially when it contradicts our own plans. However, a true calling from God will never contradict Scripture. It may be daunting, but God provides the necessary resources and peace to carry it out. Seeking confirmation through prayer and godly counsel is crucial in understanding and pursuing your calling. It is important to approach this process with a pure heart and pure motives, seeking God's will above your own. By doing so, you can be confident that you are on the right path and that God will guide you every step of the way. [47:35]
Bible Passage:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV)
Reflection:
What plans or desires do you have that might be conflicting with God's calling for you? How can you seek confirmation and peace from God about your calling today?
Day 4: Staying Committed Amidst Trials
Description:
Joseph's story illustrates the importance of remaining faithful to God despite challenges. His unwavering commitment to his general calling of knowing and obeying God kept him on course for his personal calling. Even when faced with trials and temptations, Joseph's faith ensured he fulfilled his God-given purpose. Similarly, we must protect our calling from distractions and temptations that could derail us. Staying committed to our calling requires perseverance, faith, and a deep trust in God's plan for our lives. By doing so, we can overcome any obstacles and remain on the path that God has set for us. [52:04]
Bible Passage:
"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him." (James 1:12, ESV)
Reflection:
Think about a recent trial or temptation you faced. How did you respond, and what can you do to stay more committed to your calling in the future?
Day 5: Impacting God's Kingdom
Description:
Regardless of your occupation, God calls you to impact His kingdom. This could involve serving in your church, mentoring others, or supporting ministries. Your calling is significant, and fulfilling it brings glory to God and advances His mission. It is important to recognize that every role, no matter how small it may seem, has a purpose in God's kingdom. By diligently seeking and fulfilling your calling, you contribute to building God's kingdom and fulfilling the Great Commission. This not only brings personal fulfillment but also has eternal significance. [01:00:55]
Bible Passage:
"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ." (1 Peter 4:10-11, ESV)
Reflection:
Consider how you can use your unique gifts and talents to serve others and impact God's kingdom today. What specific actions can you take to fulfill your calling in your current context?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "He is calling you to know him. That's the first part of your calling he is calling you to know him he is calling your voice he's calling you today he's calling you right now to know him he wants you to know him to be in relationship with him that's the first part of your calling that you need to know and that you need to walk in that you need to say yes to." [42:38] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "A calling from God may be big and scary but he will always give us everything we need including his peace to be able to carry it out. We have a picture on the wall in our bedroom that that says this it says the will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you." [47:35] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If God is saying hey I want you you know that he's calling you to follow him you know that he's calling you to to say yes to him surrender your life to him to invite him into your life if he's if you know that that's his call right now in your life don't wait another day don't live another day without him in your life trust me you won't want to once you finally say yes to him you're like why did i wait so long why did i try to live without him." [54:59] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You may not be called to be the prime minister of a, you know, a country or, but wouldn't that be awesome if one of our young people here became president of the United States? That'd be pretty sweet. That'd be awesome. But likely you're not going to be called to something like that. You may be probably not going to be called to save your people from worldwide drought, but you are going to be called to things like this, to serve your church, to raise a godly family." [01:15:37] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "If you're still breathing, God wants to use you in some way to, to, to encourage somebody to build up the kingdom of God. Let me tell you really quickly, because I am way out of time, but let me tell you about my friend Bill Harris. Bill Harris was an amazing man of God. I met him at first at this church, and then he ended up moving out to Murrieta, part of our church that we planted out there. He died at like 94, 95 years old. But when he was on hospice care at his house, he's in there trying to lead the hospice nurses to Jesus." [01:17:06] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Joseph he didn't know he didn't know what his dreams meant at first he didn't he didn't know how they were going to play out i know joseph did not say he got those two dreams and then he didn't tell his family well family i'm called to be the prime minister of egypt so i'm going to be taken off i'm going to head down to egypt because i'm going to go pursue that he had no idea that that's where it was going to land him he didn't know that that's what it was going to be carry out he focused on pursuing the general calling knowing god and living for god and obeying god and he made the most of every opportunity when a door opened up and god this is what you want me to do and he just walked through it he just lived for god but if he had neglected his general calling he never would have experienced his personal calling." [01:02:28] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "A calling from God may contradict our own plans but it will never contradict scripture okay so it's amazing though that even though that seems obvious you know like on the surface yeah of course god wouldn't do that but it can be so easy sometimes to give into a desire or give into a want or give to something in our life that that that doesn't match up with how the scripture tells us we're supposed to live doesn't match up with what god sent us we're the kind of people we're supposed to be but we fall into that and think oh but this is of course this is better for my life or this will help my family or this will help my career but a calling from god it may contradict our own plans sometimes you might think we're going to go this way and god says no i want you to go that way so it might contradict our plans but it will never contradict scripture." [47:35] (59 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "A calling from God may not make sense but it will often come with confirmation a lot of times god he confirms what he's asking us to do through through different situations um through other people i've had that in my life he'll confirm something through through other people and and um if you're unsure about a potential calling in your life right now just just ask god to make it clear he he he's not trying to make it difficult for you to figure out but here's what here's what here's what he does want i'll tell you what when when i was trying to figure out whether whether i should we should go plant a church or not you know as a youth pastor and it was a it was a good youth pastor job he's a big church and um it it was it was secure it was comfortable and it was thriving um and i was starting to feel like should we go plant a church um it i god didn't write it across the sky but that time of trying to of seeking god trying to say god is this your call is this your plan for me is this what you want our family to do before i was going to uproot my family and move out to another city from something that was secure." [49:09] (73 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "If you're trying to figure out your calling keep pursuing knowing god better and better and doing your best to live for him and guess what god's going to move in your heart and you're going to know what he wants you to do when i first started helping with the junior high group at this church i was just like the end of my senior year in high school um i had no idea it would be leading me into full-time ministry that was not on my radar whatsoever but at that time i was growing in the lord a lot you know i i was really just excited about living for jesus and trying my best to obey him in my life you know in my kind of small world at that time and i was just like i'm not going to do that i'm not going to begin this Armageddon i want to be good at everything i do i have to look at myself when i say that i'm mad i want to make my Little Hawaii Church um andentre in the Lord yeah that got the attention of my youth pastor and he asked me to join the junior high leadership team and i've told you the story before i you know what i told him i said as long as i never have to teach because i can't get up in front of people i did i told him i said i'll do as long as i don't have to teach." [01:03:56] (64 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "If God is calling you to do whatever it is, any of those things, or just a myriad of other things, if He's calling you to do it, then it's really important. It's really important. You might not think it's a big deal, but man, you want to just pursue that calling. You want to live in that calling, and you don't want to neglect that calling, because it's important to God. It needs to be important to us, because this can be important to His kingdom. The two most important days in your life is the day you're born and the day you find out why. So let me ask you today, have you found out why?" [01:15:37] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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